I’m astounded that the Madison County Health Department has decided to hold a “first come, first served” H1N1 clinic. There is a shortage of vaccine, and that’s understandable, but why hold a clinic where those not at high risk can receive vaccinations before those who really need them? If the plan was to initially begin with students, why can’t an age limit be posted for the first clinic? Aren’t children between the ages of 6 months and young adults to 24 years of age the most affected? Haven’t enough children died of H1N1? Studies have shown that they have the least immunity; second only to newborns to six months who cannot be immunized.

Do you really believe those who attend the clinic, who are not at high risk at this moment, will step aside so a child can be vaccinated? Is someone going to step out of line for the day-care worker who cares for infants that cannot be immunized? Why are the high-risk groups not being treated first? Hoping to reach some of them in an open clinic is moving backward. Start somewhere that counts — start with the children.

Shirley Finney

Anderson