Here’s a look at health and environmental news from around South Carolina.

Health officials provide free HIV/STD testing in the Midlands

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WACH) — State health officials continue to work to combat HIV amongst the African American community by providing free HIV/STD testing.

African American’s makeup 28 percent of the state’s population but account for 69 percent of people living with HIV in South Carolina.

To fight the epidemic, health official use National Black HIV AIDS Awareness Day to encourage people living with the disease to continue treatment to keep the virus suppressed.

DHEC makes flu shots more affordable

COLUMBIA, SC (WIS) — In response to this year’s serious flu season, the Department of Health and Environmental Control is waiving administrative fees that some pay for a flu shot at its public health clinics.

Many health care providers, community organizations and pharmacies offer low-cost or free flu shots. Additionally, most insurance plans cover at least part of the cost.

But cost will not be a barrier to flu vaccines offered in DHEC clinics.

DHEC: Don’t let cost keep you from getting a flu shot

COLUMBIA — This flu season is serious, and cost should not keep you from getting a flu shot.

Many health care providers, pharmacies and community organizations offer low- or no-cost flu shots. Most insurance plans cover at least part of the cost.

In response to the crisis, the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control is waiving administrative fees that some pay for a flu shot at its public health clinics. In any case, cost will not be a barrier to flu vaccines offered in DHEC clinics.

DHEC, Harvest Hope give free flu kits to families in need

Columbia, S.C. (WACH) — Harvest Hope Food Bank has partnered with the Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) to help prevent the flu among the state’s families in need.

DHEC has given away thousands of “Pandemic Flu Preparedness Kits” to Harvest Hope to distribute along with the meals they provide to thousands of families.

More than 100 succumb to flu so far this season in SC

More than 100 South Carolinians have now succumbed to the flu, state health officials say.

A total of 106 Palmetto State residents have died so far this season, 22 of them in the week ending Feb. 3, according to the state Department of Health and Environmental Control.