Flu needles get mixed reviews

WESTFALL — After much anticipation, the H1N1 vaccination arrived recently at Delaware Valley and inoculations were given. High school students received the shot on Nov. 13, met the needle with both skepticism and relief. After much deliberation earlier, the school district decided it was in their best interest to be proactive. A plan to administer the shot nation-wide was already in the works for the early weeks of December. At the start of the school day, students were called down by last name in alphabetical order to get the shot. The process was quick and efficient, taking about half the day. “It was very organized,” said junior AJ Malanio, “The needle didn’t hurt.” While some used the shot as a scapegoat to get out of class and did not take it seriously, students who had their parental consent forms signed walked into the auditorium, grabbed their forms and marched to the stage. There the School Nurse Ellen Orben and several other nurses and the Health Occupations students waited to administer the shots and distribute follow up paperwork - a card with their name, the date and confirmation that they had received the shot. Several students passed out as a result of getting the injection, which made others shaky. Everyone was reassured that after getting the immunization, if they sat for a while and drank water, everything would be fine. However, there were several students with signed forms who were eager to override their parent’s decision. “I feel like it should be my choice,” said junior Haley Squibb. “If I could have my way I wouldn’t get the shot. I would be able to say no.” Regardless, many felt it was good that the school provided shots, even if they did not get it. “I think it’s nice that the school supplies the shot,” said junior Alexina Giovanniello. “It really is a good opportunity.” Despite the mixed reviews the H1N1 vaccine received, 11/12 Principal Mr. Joe Casmus and 11/12 Nurse Mrs. Ellen Orben were eager to thank everyone who participated in making the day a success, including the health occupations students, Tammi Perossi, the hall monitors and Debra Allen. “We couldn’t have done it alone,” said Orben.