November 2, 2009 RI Health officials start efforts to vaccinate students Play video

(NECN: Katie Davis - Providence, RI) - Beginning Monday, schools in Rhode Island will be offering the swine flu vaccine to students.

Parents are being warned that if they pass on Monday's shots, their kids may have to wait at least another month.

Children can be vaccinated after school and the shots will be available across the state.

But the locations will depend on how much is available.

There's no cost, but children need a signed consent form from parents.

The Rhode Island's Health Director says that a shot is the best way to protect children.

Pediatricians say this strain of the flu is especially contagious.

NECN reporter Katie Davis is in Providence with more.