Mass. No. 1 in U.S. in flu vaccinations

Mass. No. 1 in U.S. in flu vaccinations

A report says Massachusetts vaccinated more residents against the swine flu and seasonal flu in the fall and winter than any other state.

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health says 36 percent of residents were inoculated against the swine flu, also known as H1N1, compared with 21 percent nationally. Seasonal flu vaccinations were administered to 57 percent of the population, compared with 37 percent nationwide.

The state report was based on data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

As of March 18, 32 deaths had been confirmed in Massachusetts. The state says all but five were among people who had underlying medical conditions.

In an interview with The Boston Globe, state Public Health Commissioner John Auerbach credited government agencies working with local heath departments, school systems, doctors and hospitals.

Mass. governor makes West Coast fundraising swing

Gov. Deval Patrick traveled to the West Coast for a fundraising trip to help fill his campaign coffers ahead of the fall election.

Patrick left Massachusetts on Sunday and spent the rest of Sunday and Monday in Los Angeles before heading to San Francisco on Tuesday. He returned on Tuesday.  

Patrick met with longtime supporters and held a few fundraisers during the trip.

Patrick has been trailing GOP opponent Charles Baker in fundraising. State Treasurer Timothy Cahill, who is running as an independent, has also stockpiled more money.

Republican Christy Mihos, Democratic community activist Grace Ross and Green-Rainbow Party candidate Jill Stein are also running for governor.