Echo Times

Issue date: 2/8/10 Section: News

Media Credit: Elisa Forsgren Health department nurse June Lee administers the swine flu vaccine to a student. So far, few at COM have sought vaccination.

After a period of limited availability, a vaccine against the H1N1 virus, commonly known as swine flu, became widely available at College of Marin over winter break, said health department nurse June Lee. But, she said, few students have come to her to get it, despite the fact that COM's health department offers it for free to people enrolled at the college.
COM student Neda Ghazanfarpour is among those who have abstained so far. "I haven't gotten the swine flu shot," he said, "but I am open to it, and I respect those who do." Other students are less receptive, citing a lack of knowledge about the vaccine, as well as concerns about its safety and effectiveness.
The H1N1 virus caused global concern when it began spreading throughout the United States. and other countries in April 2009. According to the Center for Disease Control, the virus has impacted more than one million people to date, while the World Health Organization classified it as a pandemic. The swine flu vaccine became available in October, but whether to vaccinate or not to vaccinate is a question many people around the world and at COM have asked themselves.
Health officials say the good news surrounding the virus is that, as the vaccine became available and the flu season wound down, the number of cases have significantly declined. However, the CDC has expressed concern that those who do not get vaccinated will remain vulnerable.
At COM, Lee said, the health services center aimed to educate students about swine flu, in part by issuing pamphlets that provide information about the virus. These explained how best to avoid contracting H1N1 in the first place, its symptoms, and what should be done if a person is diagnosed with the disease. Lee added that during semester break, the school's health department sent out more than 3,000 post cards informing students that the vaccine is available on campus and free for people enrolled at the college. However, she said, the response has been extremely small so far. "Out of the 100 students between the ages of 18 and 24 who have chosen to have the vaccine administered, the majority claim it was their parents decision and not their own," Lee said.
Many students, like art major Jennifer Scott, decline to get vaccinated because they doubt its importance. "I've been briefed a little by my doctor about the vaccine, but I think the flu is normal," she said. "There's no need for a shot." Others feel more strongly about it, refusing to take the vaccine because of perceived risk.
"I don't believe in injecting my body with poisons," said student Eanera Winesberry.
Health officials strongly recommend vaccination, and while Lee acknowledges not everyone will want to get vaccinated, she suggested stopping by the Health Services Center, at the very least, to learn more about the virus. "Students are welcome to stop by to pick up pamphlets, ask questions, and even get vaccinated for free at anytime," she said.

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