Anyone over 50 can now get a flu shot from the Fayette County Health Department, as officials are relaxing the guidelines developed to make sure those most at danger from getting the flu receive the vaccine.

Previously, the shots were prioritized for persons with chronic illnesses, because they could have trouble fighting off the flu and a possible deadly complication of the flu, pneumonia, officials said.

Now, anyone over 50 is urged to call and make an appointment as soon as possible to get a flu shot. Others are urged to check in every several days, as guidelines may be relaxed further in an effort to make sure the vaccine doesn't get stuck on the shelves, said County Nurse Manager Cynthia Grant.

The vaccine can't be reused next year, so the health department doesn't want to turn away anyone if possible, Grant said. To schedule an appointment for a flu shot, call the department at 770-461-1178, ext. 5416.

The nationwide vaccine shortage has made things difficult this year for healthcare workers, and the health department hasn't been a stranger to that phenomenon, Grant said. The flu vaccine shortage has angered some people who wanted to prevent the flu though they haven't qualified under the criteria established by the state, Grant noted.

"You wouldn't believe the stress they've been under the past couple of weeks," Grant said of health department employees.

One positive side effect of the vaccine shortage: This year those vaccinated were seen quicker than in the past because appointments were scheduled, giving turnaround times of 20-30 minutes in most cases, Grant added.