As the flu season approaches, local public health officials are reminding residents that shots are recommended for everyone older than 6 months. Flu vaccine is offered at numerous commercial pharmacies, grocery stores and other retail sites in the Oak Park area. Most of these sites accept private insurances and Medicare Part B to help cover the cost of the flu shot. Many sites will vaccinate children as young as 18 months. Help finding a flu shot provider is available at flushot.healthmap.org. Residents also can email health@oak-park.us or call 708.358.5483 with questions about access to an affordable flu shot.