BOONE COUNTY, MO. -- Some unexpected federal funding has lowered the price of flu shots in Boone County by $10.

Boone County Health Department Staff are offering flu shots for $15 instead of the original $25 charge.

Anyone 18 years old and younger can still get flu shots or FluMist free of charge, regardless of their insurance status.

Medicare and Medicaid recipients can also get flu vaccine for free.

The bargain rates come at the perfect time before families start traveling and spreading the virus over the holiday break.

Boone County Health Department Spokeswoman Geni Alexander said, “This really is a great time to get your flu vaccine.  It takes about 2 weeks for your body to develop protection after being vaccinated.  A vaccination this week means that you will be protected before you start traveling for Christmas and spreading those germs.”

Boone County Health Employees have given nearly 9,000 flu vaccinations this season.

That includes more than 4,600 vaccinations to elementary school children.