DANVILLE – Today is the first day that the Vermilion County Health Department is holding H1N1 influenza vaccine clinics. Vaccinations are free, and no appointment is necessary.

But remember, you must be a person who is most at risk from complications of the virus in order to receive it.

The first clinic is from 1 to 7 p.m. today at South View Middle School, 133 E. Ninth St., Danville.

Clinics also will be held at the following times and locations:

– 1 to 7 p.m. Wednesday at South View.

– 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday at the health department, 200 S. College St., Danville.

– 1 to 7 p.m. Nov. 9-10 at McFerren Park, Illinois 1, Hoopeston.

– 1 to 7 p.m. Nov. 17-18, Georgetown Fairgrounds banquet center, 413 N. Seminary St.

– 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 21 at the health department in Danville.

– 1 to 7 p.m. Dec. 1-2 at East Park Elementary School, 930 Colfax St., Danville.

It is open to:

– Pregnant women, who must bring a signed order from their doctor authorizing the vaccination, and breast-feeding women who meet the target criteria, who also must bring a signed order from their doctor.

– People who live with or care for children younger than six months old.

– Health care and emergency medical services personnel.

– All people from six months to 24 years old.

– People age 25 through 64 who have health conditions associated with higher risk of complications from influenza.

Health department officials said flu vaccine clinics for the general public will be held in a few weeks. They are asking people who aren't considered at high risk to wait until then to seek a vaccination.