Winter will soon be here, and that means its time again for people to get their flu shots.

Taking action now could help people avoid runny noses, sore throats, fevers, achy muscles and coughs later.

The Student Health Service at West Virginia University is offering vaccine clinics for WVU students at a cost of $15 at the three clinics listed below:

SHS flu shot clinics (main campus):

• Monday, Oct. 223-7 p.m., Student Recreation Center

• Tuesday, Oct. 303-7 p.m., Student Recreation Center

• Monday, Nov. 122-6 p.m., Blackwater Room, Mountainlair

Flu shots are also available at WVU s Student Health Service at other times by appointment, but an additional $10 co-payment will be charged. To schedule an appointment, call 304-293-2311.

In addition, WVU s Robert C. Byrd Health Sciences Center is sponsoring free flu vaccines for all HSC students, staff and faculty. IDs are required.

HSC flu shot clinics:

• Wednesday, Nov. 77 a.m.-3 p.m., John Jones Conference Room

• Thursday, Nov. 151-7 p.m., John Jones Conference Room

WVU health officials say theres plenty of the flu vaccine to go around this year, and they do not expect any delays.

October and November are the best months to be vaccinated, but a flu shot in December can also be beneficial as flu season can last into May, said Dr. Jan Palmer, director of WVU s Student Health Service.

The vaccine, he added, can reduce the chances of getting the flu by 70-90 percent in healthy adults. It takes about 10 days to build immunity after getting a shot.

More on the Net:http://www.cdc.gov/flu/keyfacts.htm