"It keeps them well. It keeps them in school and the evidence would indicate it also keeps them from spreading the illness to their families," explained state epidemiologist Dr. Paul Effler.

About 66,000 elementary and middle school students along with 8,900 teachers and school staff signed up, according to health officials.

"45% of all the students that are in schools that are participating opted in, which we think is fantastic because it's a pretty long, cumbersome consent form and the fact that almost one in two children have been signed up is really great," Effler said.

Some picked Flu Mist which is sprayed into the nose.

"It felt like real cold, like, air is going into your nose," explained student Jeffrey Zhang.

About 60% chose the flu shot which was painful for some.

"I think a lot of parents have chosen the tried and true, but there's a good balance," said Effler.

Students from the UH School of Nursing helped give the vaccinations. They tried different techniques to make the experience easier for the children.

"We've had a few that were just a little more challenging and (we were) having to use a little communication skills and techniques, but the majority of the kids are just great," said Lori Conley of the UH School of Nursing and Dental Hygiene.

Federal funds will pay for most of the estimated $2.5 million cost. The state will evaluate this year's program. Officials hope to offer the free vaccines again next year.

---