The swine flu vaccine is now available to the general public in New Hampshire.
The state had been targeting the vaccine to the most at-risk populations and expanding eligibility gradually over the last two months. Public health director Dr. Jose Montero said Thursday that everyone over the age of six months will now be allowed to get vaccinated, either through health care providers or public clinics.
Montero said officials also hope to start distributing the vaccine to pharmacies soon so they can hold their own clinics. Doses also are being sent to nursing homes and prisons.
Nine people have died in New Hampshire of complications related to swine flu. The state is one of 14 still reporting widespread flu-like illnesses, though the numbers are dropping.