Arkansas Lawmakers among those getting flu shots

Two Arkansas incumbents were among those taking advantage of Congress members` special access to the short supply of flu vaccine. Senator Blanche Lincoln and Representative Vic Snyder received flu shots at the urging of their doctors. The congressional physician urged all senators and congressmen to take the vaccine, but many, including four in Arkansas` delegation, said they wanted to save the short supply for high-risk groups. Both Snyder and Lincoln are Democrats. 57 year old Snyder is a family doctor and a former heart patient. Lincoln is a healthy 44 year old. Lincoln spokesman Drew Goesl said the senator doesn`t like getting the shot, but did so at the urging of her husband who is a doctor because she travels often and comes into contact with so many people. Lincoln`s opponent, Republican State Senator Jim Holt of Springdale, did not immediately return calls for comment. Democratic congressman Marion Berry made a strong statement against getting the shot, saying members of congress should not be given special treatment. Snyder met the guidelines for receiving the shot because he has had mitral valve heart surgery. His opponent state Representative Marvin Parks said if Snyder fits the criteria he should have the shot. Parks said he would forego the shot. Representative Mike Ross, who is uncontested, also chose not to receive the shot.