Government will set up Flu Express sites around the Island in a bid to protect people from the influenza virus, it was announced yesterday.

The Flu Express are a team of professionals from the Ministry of Health who will visit four distinct spots in Sandys, Warwick, Devonshire and St. George's to administer flu shots.

Their services will be available throughout November between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

For just $10, adults and children can visit the site, sign a consent form and leave with the administered shot. Seniors get the shot for free.

The Flu Express will be available on November 7 and 14 at Somersfield Academy in Devonshire; and on November 9 and 16 at Pennos Wharf in St. George's.

It will also be administered on November 10 and 17 at Warwick Clinic under the Rubber Tree; and on November 12 and 19 at St. James Church in Sandys.

Influenza or flu is a highly contagious viral infection caused by the influenza virus.

It is most common in the winter season peaking in January and February and is generally spread through coughs and sneezes of an infected person.

Annual flu shots provide a high level of immunity to current strains of the virus.

However, those who have had flu before or have been immunised in the past will only have partial immunity, meaning they are still vulnerable but may have less severe symptoms.

Government advises anyone planning to visit the Flu Express to dress comfortably to allow the nurse easy access to the injection site in the upper arm.

The public are also advised to have the correct cash available; there will not be any credit-debit machines at the sites.

Those considering Flu Express should not have allergies to eggs or chicken products, have a fever or have had a reaction to flu shots in the past. They should be in good health and have no active infections; and consult their doctor if they have chronic health issues such as diabetes, chest or heart disease after the shot.

In addition, the Ministry of Health will be giving lunch time presentations at the Bermuda Youth Library on Church Street in Hamilton on November 2, 4 and 6, between noon and 1 p.m.

Representatives from the Department of Health will be present to teach people about the flu and H1N1 viruses, to explain the symptoms and how it is spread.

They will also advise people on what can be done to protect themselves, their families and the community, to ensure everyone is healthy during the upcoming flu season.