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In preparation for what is anticipated to be an active flu season, area health professionals are encouraging residents to get their flu vaccinations a little earlier than usual. Lezlie Morris, Chief of Clinic Services with Pella Regional Health Center says this is in preparation for vaccinations that will be made available later this fall for the H1N1 virus, which needs to be administered at least three to four weeks following seasonal flu vaccinations. Ann Huyser, Infection Control nurse at Knoxville Hospital & Clinics, says flu shots are available on request and the general public is encouraged to get their flu shots now. However Huyser adds individuals should talk with their health care providers to see if they should get a flu shot immediately, as there might be special considerations for some people to wait.