Swine Flu Shot Rolls Out For All

More swine flu shots for more people. That's the message the Memphis/Shelby County Health Department is trying to send to the public today.

The vaccine rolled out slowly. First to healthcare workers, then it was babies and pregnant women. Now, it’s open to everyone who wants one. And health officials hope that means thousands.

When Elaine Jermann went to her regular doctor for her flu shot, he made no mention of the swine flu shot. "The more I heard about it, the more I think it’s a good idea, Jermann laughs.

So she signed herself up for the vaccine being offered by the Memphis/Shelby County Health Department. Finding out it was free was more good news.

Jermann giggles "This is a good thing. I didn't know that. I was willing to pay."

She was not willing to pay the price of risking getting sick. This diabetic swimmer takes her health seriously.

"I love to be alive," Jermann says. So, she waited less than an hour for the prick to protect her. "I hope more people come out and get it."

Morrow says the new strain of the virus hasn't circulated before now so the public has no immunity. She says everyone needs to protect themselves, and others.

"Initially, we were trying to target the high risk groups. We have managed to get some of them, not as many as we'd like in Shelby County vaccinated, but there is a sufficient supply," says Morrow.

Sharp shooter Lee Fitchpatrick put his hunting on hold to roll up his sleeve, and get a shot in his arm.

The deer hunter said he only waited a short 35 minutes in the lobby of the Shelby Crossing Clinic, and it was worth every minute.

"Well, this is something that seems to be almost at epidemic level, and I have a health disorder so I think I should have it," says Fitchpatrick.

Now, the health department hopes more people take advantage of the free shots.

"There is ample supply and we're able to order more on a routine basis," says Morrow.

The vaccines will be given at nine clinics, including the Department of Human Services on Jackson Avenue and Immunization Clinic on Jefferson. The health department is urging anyone who received the regular flu shot to get the H1N1 vaccine as well.