Children in several Georgia counties will be getting free flu vaccinations at school. It’s the first time the state has offered the program to counties.

The program’s intent is to keep kids healthy and in school. “The idea behind the pilot is to see what we can do to the absentee rates in the winter and spring,” says Dianne Waston, the director of the state office of immunization who’s heading it up.

So far, kids in the Macon and Rome areas will have the option of getting vaccinated for free.

The state is waiting for word on more federal funds to accommodate more of the 75 counties who want to participate.

Parents must sign a consent form to get the free vaccination for their children. It will protect against 3 strains of flu viruses including H1N1. Schools will start administering shots November 1st.

Tags: H1N1, Flu Vaccines, Student Vaccines, Immunization