A thimerosal-free flu shot can be difficult to find, but Minute Clinics around the country stock two kinds for adults: Fluarix and the mercury-free version of Fluzone. Federal health officials and most doctors say the preservative thimerosal is safe, but many pregnant women and parents of young children worry the mercury it contains might contribute to autism or other neurological damage.

To locate a Minute Clinic, go to www.minuteclinic.com or call 1-866-389-ASAP (2727). There are five locations in Pittsburgh, with several more scheduled to open in coming months. The clinics also provide other medical care such as diagnosing and treating strep throat, flu, bronchitis and various skin conditions, and administering many vaccines.

For thimerosal-free flu shots for kids, try the Allegheny County Health Department at 1-412-687-ACHD (2243).

Flu shot clinic sites, providing the standard shots for adults, operating in the coming week include:

• Tri-Community South EMS, in conjunction with the Rotary Club of Bethel Park, is offering flu shots from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. today at its office, 5480 Progress Blvd. The cost is $16. Call 412-854-4842.

• Ohio Valley Hospital is offering flu shots from 1 to 3 p.m. Nov. 9 in its Josephine Roseta Auditorium. The cost is $25, reimbursable by insurance. Call 412-777-6211.

• St. Clair Hospital is sponsoring the following flu shot clinics from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Nov. 10 and 11 at the hospital and Nov. 11 at its outpatient Center in Village Square, 2000 Oxford Drive, Bethel Park. Preregistration is required by calling 412-942-6566 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. weekdays.

• Flu shots are being given from 9:30 a.m. to noon Nov. 8 at Immaculate Conception School 321 Edmond St. Call 412-621-4199.