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Campaign opposing mandatory H1N1 flu shots

Posted: Oct 14, 2009 2:55 PM
Updated: Oct 14, 2009 2:55 PM


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Homemade signs are poping up in Tucson with a skull and syringe. The message is aimed at supporting first responders who don't want to take the H1N1 vaccine.

Ernie Hancock, who runs the libertarian website Freedoms Phoenix, launched the campaign in response to health care workers in New York being mandated to take the swine flu vaccine.

"I claim what's in my skin. I will not allow a bureaucrat to force anything to go into my skin without my permission," says Hancock.

Patti Woodcock with The Pima County Health Department hopes Tucsonans don't become frightened by the signs. She's adamant the swine flu vaccine is safe and unlike New York, doesn't foresee required shots here.

"But as far as mandating it, no, we're encouraging everyone to get their seasonal vaccine and the H1N1 when it becomes available," says Woodcock.

We spoke to local fire departments. Neither Tucson nor Northwest Fire will require first responders to get the vaccine. However, so far three dozen Northwest Firefighters have come forward, voluntarily requesting the vaccine. Tucson Fire has also had requests. The shipment is expected to arrive around October 21st.

Although regular flu shots are not required either, 80 percent of Northwest first responders have been voluntarily vaccinated.

Tucsonans have mixed reactions.

When asked if it should be a requirement, Tucsonan Sid Wolitzky says, "Yes definitely. Because the people who care for sick people and who are around sick people need to be immunized against swine flu so they don't give it to other people."

Nabi Garrett disagrees saying, "No, again that's big brother telling you what to do with your life."

Until Freedoms Phoenix gets it in writing, that first responders in Arizona won't be mandated to get the shot, Hancock says the signs will continue to go up around town.

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