HARRISBURG – All Pennsylvanians are urged to take advantage of the increasing supply of the H1N1 vaccine by getting immunized at the upcoming vaccination clinics being offered by the state Department of Health.

"Although flu activity is currently declining in the state, experts predict there will be a third wave of illness from H1N1," said secretary of health Everette James.

"The clinics are free of charge and being vaccinated is still the most effective way to protect your health and control the spread of this potentially deadly flu."

H1N1 flu vaccination clinics will be held at 33 locations statewide from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Jan. 8 and 9. Mercer County will host its clinic at Shenango Valley Mall in Hermitage; Butler County, at Butler Auto Auction in Cranberry Township; and Venango County, at Pleasantville Fire Department.

Appointments are required by calling 1-877-PA-HEALTH (1-877-724-3258) 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday; and Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; or by visiting www.H1N1inPA.com and clicking under "What's Hot."

To date, the DOH has allocated more than 4,588,000 doses of vaccine to distribute to its citizens. The department has ordered vaccine on behalf of 2,766 certified providers.

In addition to offering the vaccine to any Pennsylvanian who wants it, the department continues to urge members of priority groups to be vaccinated against H1N1. They include pregnant women; persons 6 months old to 24 years old; healthcare providers and emergency services personnel; parents, household members and caregivers of children under 6 months; and those under 65 with certain underlying medical conditions.