Just days before a mass inoculation program against the potentially deadly H1N1 virus begins in Greece, a poll conducted on behalf of Kathimerini indicates that six in 10 Greeks do not intend to be vaccinated.

The Public Issue poll suggests that 63 percent of respondents will choose not to get the jab. The survey also points to a general sense of composure among Greeks with regard to the possibility of being infected by swine flu.

Seven in 10 said they are not avoiding shaking people’s hands. Eight in 10 said they are not covering their mouths and noses when they find themselves in a crowded area. Six in 10 do not avoid taking public transport and half say they are going out to nightclubs, cafes and public utility offices with the same frequency as before the virus appeared in Greece.

The telephone poll of 538 people also indicated that seven in 10 Greeks feel they are well informed about the implications of the virus. As a result, 95 percent say they wash their hands carefully, 89 percent clean their work areas or surfaces at home and 74 percent do not share cups or towels.

Just over half of Greeks feel that the measures taken by the government to combat or treat the virus are adequate. Health Minister Mariliza Xenogiannakopoulou yesterday announced the timetable for the vaccination program, which will begin next Monday when health professionals will be the first to be inoculated. On November 23, people in high-risk groups, such as the elderly or those with chronic health problems, will be allowed to get their jabs. On December 1, anyone aged between 18 and 49 will be able to be vaccinated. From December 7, inoculation will start for children up to the age of 17 and anyone over the age of 50.