For the first time, the federal government says all children ages 6 months through 18 years should be vaccinated. Before, it was recommended up to age 5.

In addition, the CDC says health care workers, pregnant women, people over 50, and those living in a nursing home or who have a chronic medical condition should get a flu shot or the nasal spray.

To find flu clinics, call 1-800-275-0659. Or click on the "flu clinic locator" at www.immunize-utah.org, where you can also search for clinics that provide vaccines free of thimerosal, a preservative that contains mercury.

While studies have disproven the link between thimerosal and autism, it has been removed from most vaccines given to children because of mercury's potential for causing neurological problems.

The nasal-spray flu vaccine, FluMist, is made with live, weakened virus and doesn't contain thimerosal. It's recommended for healthy people ages 2 to 49. The shot, made with or without thimerosal depending on the manufacturer, is for people older than 6 months.

Children under 9 who are getting the flu vaccine for the first time need two doses, according to the Utah Department of Health.

This year's vaccine contains three new virus strains with the hope they will better match the strains that will cause the most illnesses. Last year, two of the three strains in the vaccine weren't a good match.

Other tips to reduce the risk of spreading or getting the flu:

* Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.

* Cough into your elbow.

* Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds several times a day.

* Stay at home when you're sick.

Last year, 511 Utahns were hospitalized for flu and two children - neither of whom was vaccinated - died of flu-related complications. The peak flu season hits in January or February, though health officials say to get vaccinated as soon as the shots are available.

hmay@sltrib.com