Natchez residents will finally have a chance to receive a flu vaccine this week. Beginning at 8 a.m. Tuesday, the health department will offer a special flu shot clinic at the Natchez High multi-purpose building &045; the old convention center &045; to give flu shots to high-risk residents.

Vaccines will cost $15.

The shortage of flu shots this year has caused a bit of panic across the country, with long lines stretching outside health departments and clinics as people wait to receive a vaccine.

We hope this Tuesday’s clinic goes smoothly for all involved, but residents need to remember that not everyone is eligible &045; nor does everyone need &045; a flu shot.

It’s important to remember what high-risk means in terms of the flu season:

4adults age 65 or older

4people with long-term health problems such as heart disease, kidney disease, lung diseases and others

4women who are pregnant or will be pregnant during this flu season

4anyone who lives with or cares for children less than six months old.

Most of us are not at high risk because even if we get the flu, it isn’t likely to do much but keep us in bed for a few days.

But those who are at high risk are in danger of becoming gravely ill or even of dying as a result of contracting the flu, and those are the people who should show up on Tuesday to receive a vaccine.