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ALBANY, GA -- "It was painful but it was only, like, for a minute, 30 seconds," said Charoyce Grier.

A small pinch for a season’s worth of protection.

Starting Thursday, the Dougherty County Health Department makes it easy for shoppers at Albany Mall to stay healthy.

"We’re here at the mall trying to protect the community against vaccine-preventable diseases," said Suzette Profit of Dougherty County Health. "We’re offering the flu shot for a cost of $25.00."

This year’s flu shot provides additional protection against H1N1 and other vaccines are also available, such as tetanus with a whooping cough booster, a pneumonia inoculation, and Gardasil for cervical cancer.

Jakeiah Jones decided on a tetanus shot both for the health benefits and to set a good example for her children.

"I hate shots to be totally honest but I know that they have to get them so if they see me being strong about it, then they’ll be strong about it too," said Jones.

I actually volunteered to get a shot but I’m still getting over a cold so they recommend that I wait. But anyone over 6 months is a good candidate.

Despite enduring the needles of a few tattoo sessions, Charoyce Grier dreaded getting her shot but said she made the right decision.

"A tattoo’s kind of just annoying - like an annoying feeling," said Grier. "This is, like, painful."

But it was worth it?

"Yes," said Grier. "Absolutely."

The immunization drive runs through December 2^nd.