More schoolchildren in the Midlands are opting to get the swine flu vaccine than state health officials predicted, a sampling from the first two weeks of shots shows.

The percentages, mostly from elementary schools, could change as middle and high schools get their chances in local districts.

District 5 of Lexington and Richland counties began its vaccinations this week. Richland 1 is expected to start soon, and Lexington 3 has delayed its shots until Dec. 1 because of vaccine is in short supply.

As the massive statewide effort rolls on, here are a few numbers to consider:

Number of students in S.C. public schools: More than 700,000

Percentage health officials estimated would request H1N1 vaccinations: 30-40 percent

Percentage who requested the vaccine in the first two weeks in local districts: 57 percent in Richland 2; 55 percent in Lexington 2; 54 percent in Lexington 4; 48 percent in Lexington 1

For detailed information on school district vaccine efforts, go to your school district's Web site or see our guide at thestate.com.