LOC15:42
12:42 GMT
BRUSSELS, Nov 7 (KUNA) -- The first phase of Belgium's vaccination campaign
to combat the spread of swine flu started on Saturday, local media reported.
First the people who fall into several risk categories will get the vaccine
which is free of charge.
The chronically ill, pregnant women, parents of babyies, teachers and child
minders can all get the injection.
Earlier health workers including doctors and nurses were inoculated.
The vaccine is not dangerous, but side effects are greater than ordinary
flu jab, noted Belgian media reports.
Municipalities around the country are sending out letters detailing who is
at risk and who qualifies for the first vaccination drive.
One million vaccines are available for such people in Belgium at the
moment.
The number of swine flu cases recorded in Belgium is around 77,000 and
seven people have died from the swine flu. (end)
nk.rk
KUNA 071542 Nov 09NNNN