DALLAS - Thousands of people attended swine flu vaccinations clinics across North Texas over the weekend.
In Dallas County, more than 2,000 were vaccinated Saturday at the Antioch Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church. A line formed before the doors opened at 8 a.m.
“I believe the church should be there to aid the community," said Pastor Abe Cooper Jr. "And most of the time, it’s about food and clothing. This takes it to the next level."
More than 60 medical workers ran the free, appointment-only clinic. They handed out a limited supply of the vaccine that was given to those in priority groups.
Jasmine Moore, 9, was among the 2,021 who were vaccinated at the clinic. She smiled throughout the entire process.
So far, 21 people, including four children, have died from swine flu complications in Dallas County. Health officials said while cases at emergency rooms are decreasing, they are still worried about the unknown.
“It’s unpredictable how or what direction the swine flu-H1N1 virus is going to be moving,” said Zachary Thompson, Dallas County’s Health and Human Services director. “We don’t know if there’s going to be a second wave.”
The county’s goal is to prepare for that possible second wave. The county is going to send about 16,000 doses of the vaccine to area pharmacies. It’s also planning on holding more clinics for Dallas County residents this coming week at several locations.
Those interested in getting vaccinated need to make an appointment by calling the Dallas County H1N1 hotline at (214) 819-6001.
VACCINATION CLINIC LOCATIONS:
2377 N. Stemmons Freeway, Dallas
440 S. Nursery Road, Irving
2774 Valwood Parkway, Farmers Branch
E-mail mdiaz@wfaa.com
