WIS News 10 - Columbia, South Carolina | H1N1 vaccinations continue in Kershaw Co. schools

H1N1 vaccinations continue in Kershaw Co. schools

By Stewart Moore - bio | email

LUGOFF, SC (WIS) - Friday the Kershaw County School District continued to vaccinate students for H1N1. The vaccinations came just a week after the death of a teacher who tested positive for the swine flu at Camden Middle School.

Lining up by the dozens, middle-schoolers at Lugoff-Elgin nervously waited for their turn to get the swine flu shot.

One line has something a little more unique: a mother and son, teacher and student, both receiving the shot.

"My son has had asthma, breathing problems, and I was afraid with all the underlying conditions that cause the death in the children, that he should get the shot," said Kari Meldrum.

Kari says many of her students have been out of school year with the swine flu.
 
It's no surprise to district spokesperson Mary Anne Byrd. Now they are taking the steps to prevent further spread.

"We're pleased with the participation rate," Byrd said. "We're about 37% around district that have wanted to get it through our clinics, and we know a lot of our families have already gotten it through other resources. Health department as well."

The rush to get the vaccine is simple for Kari. She says parents see the statistics of deaths around the country.

"It makes you very scared. Want to keep your children safe," said Meldrum. "This was the best way I know to keep my son safe."

Kari says both of her sons will take part in the the school district's H1N1 clinics, whether they like it or not.

"He's not real excited about it, but doesn't matter," said Meldrum. "He's getting it."

"I was just real nervous," said John. "Told me to let my arm sit there. Then she gave me the shot. It didn't really hurt."

The district will complete the H1N1 clinics by Thanksgiving. You can visit your school's website to see when they may be giving the vaccine.

Copyright 2009 WIS. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.