NORTH ANSON -- The school district that serves the towns of Anson, North Anson, Solon, New Portland and Embden will hold clinics for influenza immunizations tomorrow and Tuesday.

For the first time, School Administrative District 74 will offer children vaccinations for the seasonal flu and H1N1, commonly called swine flu.

The district mailed information and a permission slip to parents and guardians. Students need to return that permission slip to their teachers to receive a vaccination. If students do not have the permission slip, parents may call the schools to sign up for a clinic, said Amy Dawe, secretary to the superintendent.

The times and dates for vaccinations are as follows:

* Garret Schenck Elementary School, 8:30 a.m., Thursday, Nov. 19.

* Carrabec Community School, 9:30 a.m., Thursday, Nov. 19.

* Carrabec High School, 8:30 a.m., Tuesday, Nov. 24.

* Solon Elementary School, 11 a.m., Tuesday, Nov. 24.

* Embden Elementary School, 1 p.m., Tuesday, Nov. 24.

The district previously expected to provide the vaccinations at a later date, but availability changed, according to information provided by the district.

The district reminds parents and guardians that these vaccinations are only available to SAD 74 students and not to other family members.

The district encourages parents or guardians to accompany their children at the clinics.

The best way to prevent the flu is by getting a flu vaccination each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Erin Rhoda -- 474-9534

erhoda@mainetoday.com