Swine flu vaccines may be given in schools and at work

July 10, 10:00 AMSt. Louis Family & Parenting ExaminerAngela Atkinson

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As the swine flu (H1N1) virus runs rampantly through the country, the Obama administration is ready to step in to help. According to reports released yesterday, a vaccine is due to be released by October. And, it appears, kids may be receiving the vaccines at school, while their parents could receive it at work.

"We may end up averting a crisis. That's our hope," President Obama said of the possible vaccines.

Several St. Louis companies are requiring up to seven mandatory sick days for those showing flu symptoms. Plus, in May, more than 700 schools closed nationwide due to the swine flu.

In addition to funding the creation and testing of the vaccine, the government plans to help on a local level too.

"It will offer $260 million in "preparedness grants" to states and cities for the vaccination drive and $90 million to hospitals preparing for surges of cases," says Lauran Neergaard of the Associated Press. "Congress has already appropriated $1 billion for vaccine ingredients and up to $7.5 billion more for testing, buying and distributing vaccine."

And, says Dr. Thomas Frieden, head of the Centers for Disease Control, "This flu is not over." And while he admits that it doesn't appear to be excessively widespread, it is certainly within any family's best interest to take all necessary precautions to help ensure wellness, including things like regular hand washing, avoiding sharing drinks and food, and eating a well-balanced diet.