The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has predicted a particularly rough season for Influenza this year, prompting the Charles County Department of Health to schedule another clinic to administer the flu vaccine for free to county residents, according to a news release.

The department will offer injectable and nasal spray versions of the vaccine, as well as a high-dose version for people older than 65, from 1 to 4 p.m. Jan. 15 at its offices at 4545 Crain Highway in White Plains. There also will be a previously scheduled clinic held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Jan. 30. All adults and children older than 6 months can be inoculated.

Besides being vaccinated, the department recommends frequent handwashing with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer to avoid falling ill. Not touching one’s face and avoiding sick people also help, the announcement states.

To reduce the virus’s spread, people suffering from flu-like symptoms can cover their mouths with a tissue when coughing and sneezing and avoid healthy people, including by staying at home for at least 24 hours after a fever breaks, if possible, the announcement recommends.

Go to charlescountyhealth.org or cdc.gov/flu/protect/preventing.htm.

ERICA MITRANO