NATCHEZ — Swine flu antiviral medication is now available for uninsured and underinsured Mississippians.

The Mississippi State Department of Health announced Monday the antivirals will only be available through a prescription from a medical doctor. MSDH has entered into agreements with selected pharmacies throughout the state to help distribute Tamiflu and Relenza from the state and federal stockpiles to patients who cannot otherwise afford them.

In order to receive the free medications, the patient must bring a prescription of the medication and a signed document from their health care provider indicating which high-risk group the patient belongs. The health care provider will refer patients.

The swine flu vaccine is available at the Adams County Health Department. A total of 85,390 vaccine doses have been allocated for county clinics across Mississippi. Individual county doses are based on population.

For more information, visit the MSDH Web site at www.HealthyMS.com or call the MSDH flu hotline at 1-877-222-9FLU. The hotline hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.