Christian County Helps Schools Immunize Students Against H1N1

Students at Clever Elementary School lined up Thursday for the chance to be immunized against the H1N1 virus.

No needles were involved--instead the Christian County Health Department used the new H1N1 flu mist.

"It's just based on the vaccine, the amount that we get, and the types that we get in as to what we can schedule," said Karen Potter with the Christian County Health Department.

Students didn't seem to mind which version they got--they were just thankful.

"I'm actually glad that I'm getting it, because I don't want to miss school for getting the H1N1 Swine Flu," said sixth grader Samantha Hook.

The H1N1 mist, much like the vaccine, could take up to two doses to be effective, but so far has been more readily available than the H1N1 shot itself.

The H1N1 Flu Mist is actually for any healthy individual ages 2 to 49, but someone like myself, with a history of asthma, shouldn't get the mist.

The health department says if you are in doubt of whether you or your child should should get it, simply consult your primary physician.

But even with the medical concerns that surround H1N1 immunizations, we found most parents accepting of the prevention method.

"I thought it was nice for the to come out here, because everything I've read leads me to believe it's the thing to do to keep your kids safe," said Mary McGregor.

There's also the convenience that goes along with a school wide immunization clinic.

"Much, much, much better.  I've called around to the Stone County Health Department.  I've called my pediatrician.  They are all out right now. So, it was a good opportunity, and we took advantage of it," said Angie Garrett.

The Christian County Health Department says schools are among the first to get the vaccinations when they arrive.

So far, nationwide, 86 children have died from H1N1 complications since April.

That's equivalent to the number of child deaths that happen over the course of an entire typical flu season.