Federal health officials reported on Friday that for the fourth week in a row there were no states with widespread H1N1 flu activity. The news has some thinking the epidemic is over. Federal health officials won't go so far as to say that, but one university expert said the epidemic “has one foot in the grave." So is H1N1 more hype than a continued health risk? Parents at Stuart Place Elementary School in Harlingen for had varying opinions on the debate.
“I think it was all too much hype...I think it was way too much," said Lori Bell, the mother of a 6 year old at the school.
An estimated 70 million Americans have been vaccinated against H1N1 since October. Nationwide, it only accounts for about 40 percent or more of the public that actually has immunity to the virus. State Health Director Doctor Brian Smith warns it's not enough. South Texas H1N1 cases are higher than other regions, according to Dr. Smith. He adds there have been two recent deaths reported with another case considered “suspect.”
Dr. Smith said he still urges people to get vaccinated has peak flu season begins.
“Younger school children are most at risk,” said Dr. Smith.
Maggie Rodriguez and her 4-year-old son Landrum have already received the protection against the virus.
"He goes to daycare... but it’s not just schools where it's going around... Anywhere you go around... Wal-Mart anywhere... You can catch it...I'd rather be safe than sorry," said Rodriguez.
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