October is an ideal time to receive a flu shot, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). It generally recommends inoculation for adults and children six months old or more; there are exceptions.

Forgoing a shot can lead to a lengthier illness with more severe symptoms. And for at-risk populations — the elderly, for example — it could even be fatal.

One common excuse for forgoing them is that it’s inconvenient.

The CDC’s database of retail sites in Montgomery County providing flu shots shoots a hole in this excuse.

It lists 81 retailers across the county that provide the protection.

ZIP Code 19403 — covering Eagleville, Audubon, East-West Norriton, and Trooper — offers its residents the most opportunity for protection, with seven in-store providers.

Countywide, shots are available at national drug store chains (Walgreens, CVS), major food stores (Wegmans, Giant, Costco), and independent pharmacies (Skippack, Horsham Square). Most of these outlets do not charge.

Injections are also available at the offices of residents’ primary care physicians; a cost may be incurred for accessing one at these locations.

More on influenza — prevention tactics, a flu shot location finder by ZIP Code — is at the CDC website.