In D.C., a well-organized effort at H1N1 vaccination

Last week, I got the H1N1 flu vaccine at a clinic at Cardozo Senior High School in Northwest Washington. I want to commend the D.C. Department of Health for the planning, organization and human resources that went into this successful effort.

While we waited in line, Health Department staff members distributed clipboards to us so that required paperwork could be completed well in advance of getting the vaccine. Staff respectfully listened and responded knowledgeably to the questions asked by many parents and other adults.

We were then escorted into the auditorium, seated in order of arrival and given a ticket just before being directed to the auditorium stage to receive the vaccine.

This process was extremely orderly and ensured that no one could cut in line. Very few children were crying, which speaks well of the skill and sensitivity of the registered nurses administering the flu shots to infants and toddlers. Though most doctors and pharmacies in Washington have yet to receive their allotments of the H1N1 vaccine, I am pleased to say that the Health Department clinic offered a painless option for those who wish to be vaccinated now.

Alan Guttman, Washington