Statewide Program Takes Aim At Flu

“More than 60,000 school children received free flu vaccinations through this program last year,” Lt. Governor Aiona told reporters. “That represents about 45 percent of all school children in our state between ages 5 and 13. This year our goal is to vaccinate at least 50 percent of our students in that age group.”

The Lt. Governor was joined at the news conference by Director of Health Chiyome Fukino. The other three speakers were: Carmen Himenes, superintendent of Catholic Schools; Daniel Hamada, assistant superintendent of the Department of Education; and Dr. Louise Iwaishi, of the Hawai‘i Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Last year, Hawai‘i became the first state in the nation to offer free flu vaccine to elementary and middle school students statewide. The program, Protect Hawai`i's Keiki: Stop Flu at School, received a national award for its efforts to reduce seasonal flu illness in schools and communities, where it can result in countless school and work absences, hospitalizations and even deaths.

Lt. Governor attributed the national attention to community support for the program. He also encouraged parents to again sign consent forms they will be receiving this week. The forms are due Sept. 5.

• Watch the news conference.
  
• Learn more about the Stop Flu at School program here.