Evidence of H1N1 Fear in Sioux Falls, SD

Good afternoon. My name is Chelsea Tobin, I am reporting for 198.7 CMT. Here is a human interest story that I wanted to share with you, my viewers, about the evident H1N1 scare in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

I went to Family Clinic this morning because I kept waking up with sore throat and clogged nose with green snot (too much information, I realize)- so this beckons for a doctor visit.

I showed up at 10am after my class and the receptionist acknowledged my presence and handed me a N95 replica mask (or was it AN actual N95 mask, I do not know) to wear in the waiting room until nurse calls for my name.

Yeah. Awkward. Nobody else was wearing a mask in the waiting room. Just me.

Then, the nurse called for my name, and I followed her to the room. The doctor came in and asked questions.

My only complaint is that I have issues with my sinuses, and I don't want it to become worse during finals week. The doctor did the procedure of asking more questions. Then when he was ready to leave, he told me that he will send a nurse in to do a blood drawing for white blood count.

I have history with needles. I don't react well. My well-intentions with needles when I donated blood.... and I did it three times. First time, I became pale, nearly fainted. Second time, I actually fainted and had to have a smelling salt to bring me around. Last time I donated was during my junior year of college, and I ended up throwing up in my dorm room after donating blood.

So, drawing blood shouldn't be TOO bad.

Have faith. God is BIGGER than needles...

Oh dear Jesus, please keep an eye on me and help the nurse to find my veins immediately so I don't have to suffer. Amen.

That was the aftermath. The nurse couldn't help but the chuckle at my dilemma. I think I actually emitted a whining sound when I saw the needle.

Anyways, my PUNCH line is, Sioux Falls is INDEED on the watch for H1N1 virus.

Just remember what you learned during your primary years, wash your hands often and cover your mouth when you sneeze and cough.

The teacher in me thanks you.