Health Department pleased with first round of school clinics

PROVIDENCE—With the first round of school clinics under their belt, health officials in Rhode Island said Tuesday that they’re pleased with the turnout.

On average, 76 percent of students in the first 10 schools to offer the vaccine got it, which was very close to the 80 percent target the state was anticipating.

Dr. David Gifford, the director of the state Department of Health, said things went smoothly for the most part.

“I think one kid passed out. We had two individuals get some scratchy throats. We wanted to make sure it wasn’t an allergic reaction. Turned out not to be.  (We) sent them to the hospital just to be sure. One kid was crying after the shot and threw up on one of the injectors,“ Gifford said.

The Health Department said children with a fever can get the vaccine, as long as it’s under 100.4 degrees and even if the child has a cough.

In light of two student deaths in two weeks, Gifford encouraged parents to get their children vaccinated.

“We’re happy with whatever number we get because this is really a parent’s choice,“ Gifford said. “I’d like to see as many people get vaccinated because it’s clear—by far and away—the safest way to protect your child.“

Some parents attending day two of the clinics at the Robert L. Bailey IV Elementary School in Providence said they want to do just that.

“It worries me a lot because I don’t want to lose my kids of flu,“ Beatrice Rodriguez said. “It worries me a lot.“

The Health Department said it is certain that it has enough vaccine for next week’s schedule of school-based clinics in Rhode Island.

Beyond that, the schedule will depend on the supply of vaccine.