Free flu shots will be given to children ages six months to 18 on Wednesday, Nov. 12.

Last year, nearly 2,000 youths took advantage of the program offered by the South Dakota Department of Health and Pennington County Office of Emergency Management.

The number is expected to increase and volunteers will again be needed for non-medical assistance - handing out information, assisting with line management and answering general questions.

Volunteers, who will receive a free flu shot if they wish, will be trained from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Rushmore Plaza Civic Center, then assist for at least two hours during the vaccination clinic, which runs from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m.

People interested in volunteering can call the American Red Cross at 342-4010 for more information or to register.

Children from 6 months to 6 years receiving their first flu vaccination will need two doses, requiring a follow-up visit with their family physician or South Dakota Department of Health. Follow-up appointments with the department may be made by calling 394-2516.

Parents with children who are not in school are asked to complete a survey and a flu vaccination record before bringing their children to the clinic.

Those interested in receiving flu vaccinations for their children may get the forms and additional information at the county's emergency management Web site at www.co.pennington.sd.us or by calling 394-2185.