PHOENIX -- A large supply of the H1N1 vaccine is due to arrive in Arizona next week.
This comes as the incidence of flu-like illness is spreading in Arizona schools.
According to the Arizona Department of Health Services, last week 700 out of every 100,000 students reported flu like symptoms.
The week prior to that, the number was almost half as many, 450 per 100,000 students.
That's one of the reasons Dr. Karen Lewis is encouraging people to get the H1N1 shot when it arrives.
She knows some people are concerned about the vaccine.
"I would remind people that the H1N1 vaccine is made the same way that the seasonal influenza vaccine is made year after year after year," Lewis said.
The government is paying for the vaccine, but that doesn't mean it will come without cost for some people.
While the vaccine is free, some places will charge an administrative fee for the shot. It could range between $8 and $22 for most people.
"People with insurance, I would expect in most cases, for it to be covered. Those who do not have insurance, public health will provide clinics and there will be no charge at that clinic," Lewis said.
"It costs to get vaccines out, you have to pay for the office, you have to pay for the nurses. Physicians don't earn a lot of money on shots, but the ones who give them know how important and wonderful they are."
Still, some parents aren't so sure their children will get the H1N1 shot.
Desiree Schaffner says her daughter Peyton may get the shot. She wants to speak with her doctor and do a little research first.
"I'd have to look on line and see what the benefits and what the cons are to using it."
Those who are concerned about the administrative fee may want to contact their insurance company and ask if the fee will be covered.
Those without insurance will eventually find the clinics listed
online.
Clinic locations, dates and times will be announced within the next month, according to Lewis.
