About the H1N1 Flu Vaccine

Yesterday, the Philippine Department of Health started the vaccination of frontline health workers against the A(H1N1) virus. Students, being future health workers, should know facts about the vaccine against A(H1N1) virus.

Since supplies are limited, which group of people should get the vaccine first?

CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommended that people at highest risk for complications from this virus, or those caring for high risk individuals who cannot receive vaccination, receive the vaccine first.

These include:

• pregnant women, 
• people who live with or care for children younger than 6 months of age, 
• health care and emergency medical services personnel, 
• anyone 6 months through 24 years of age, and people ages of 25 through 64 years of age at higher risk for 2009 H1N1 influenza because of certain chronic health conditions or compromised immune systems.

Persons 10 years of age and older should receive one dose of vaccine. For children who are 6 months through 9 years of age, two doses of the vaccine are recommended.

The 2009 H1N1 influenza vaccine appears to show a similar safety profile to seasonal flu vaccines, which have a very good safety track record. Examples of mild side effects are soreness, redness, tenderness or swelling where the shot was given.

Influenza vaccines do not protect against other viruses that cause respiratory illnesses. 

For more detailed information go to: CDC H1N1 General Questions or CDC Vaccine General Questions