Thousands turn out for Marion Co. H1N1 clinic

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) - More the 3,000 people turned up for the Marion County Health Department's H1N1 vaccination clinic.

The clinic took place at Lafayette Square Mall Wednesday from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.

People began lining up hours before the doors opened.

Kathy Wright turned up nearly six hours early with her 19-month-old granddaughter.

"I got here at 9:15 a.m. for her. We had went to another clinic they ran out 15 minutes after they opened they were out of the vaccine. So I came and sat for her and she just got here so we are all ready to go," said Wright.

The clinic is for individuals who are considered most at risk when it comes to the H1N1 virus. They include pregnant women, children, those with medical conditions, and health care providers.

"We thought it was important our kids are asthmatic. We just wanted to make sure they will be safe," said Anthony Porter, a father of three.

In an effort to get more people immunized, the health department plans to start vaccinating students at their schools.

Phase one of the plan calls for teams of nurses to visit elementary schools starting next week.

Schools like Westlake Elementary in Wayne Township.

"We will provide the room, the table probably in the cafeteria or gym depending upon how many parent consents we get back," said Cheri O'Day with Wayne Township Schools.

Wayne Township sent home consent forms for the parents to fill out. The forms must be returned by Friday.

The health department says without a consent form, nurses cannot vaccinate a student.