H1N1 vaccine Q&A
Q: Does the regular flu shot provide protection from the H1N1 swine flu?
A: No. The seasonal flu shot provides immunization from three strains of the seasonal flu. A vaccine for the swine flu is currently being developed.
Q: When will the H1N1 vaccine be ready?
A: Five companies are manufacturing the vaccine and the U.S. was originally supposed to receive 120 million doses in October. But because production is going more slowly than expected, the U.S. will get only 45 million by mid-October; more will come after that. Because of the limited availability, high-risk people will be the first to get the vaccine. The federal government this week asked manufacturers to make available some vaccine to these groups by mid-September.
Q: Who are the high-risk populations?
A: Pregnant women, health care workers and emergency responders, children and young adults from 6 months old to 24 years old, people caring for infants under 6 months old, and people age 25 to 64 with underlying medical conditions such as asthma and diabetes. Together, these groups total about 159 million people. The CDC is also recommending to parents that they try to get the vaccine for the entire family.
Q: Is the vaccine safe?
A: Human clinical trials are being conducted right now in the U.S. with 2,400 volunteers. The results of the trials should be known in October. In 1976, a swine flu outbreak led to the vaccination of 40 million Americans, and thousands filed injury claims saying they suffered a paralyzing condition called Guillain-Barre Syndrome or other side effects. In June, the government gave H1N1 vaccine makers legal immunity from lawsuits, although the protection allows for a compensation fund for any injuries.
Q: Does the vaccine contain mercury?
A: The multi-dose vials contain thimerosal, a mercury-based preservative that some people believe contribute to the high rates of autism. The CDC says evidence does not support the link. However, thimerosal-free doses of the H1N1 vaccine will be available for pregnant woman and young children. Also, the nasal spray version of the vaccine does not have the preservative.
Q: How many shots will the H1N1 vaccine require?
A: The clinical trials are testing the effectiveness of one- versus two-dose treatments. No recommendation has been made yet.
Q: Can the seasonal flu shot and the H1N1 vaccine be given at the same time?
A: It is anticipated that seasonal flu and novel H1N1 vaccines may be administered on the same day. However, the seasonal vaccine will be available earlier than the H1N1 vaccine, and people are encouraged to get the seasonal flu shot as soon as possible.
Q: Where will the vaccines be available?
A: Vaccination clinics are being organized by local health departments, doctor’s offices, schools and other private settings such as pharmacies and workplaces.
Sources: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Associated Press