H1N1 Influenza Vaccination Information
Is this a new vaccine?
Two influenza vaccines are being offered this year. The seasonal flu vaccine that was available in August 2009 includes protection against three types of influenza. The H1N1 virus emerged and was isolated too late in the year to be included in this vaccine. For this reason an additional form of the flu shot was manufactured that only includes protection against H1N1 influenza strain. This vaccine is manufactured using identical techniques as seasonal vaccine. It is not a new vaccine. It will be available in injectable and nasal forms, just like seasonal flu. Recommendations regarding dosing and contraindications are likely to be identical to seasonal flu vaccine. Final recommendations are pending at this time regarding number of doses.
The H1N1 vaccine and the regular seasonal flu vaccine can be administered at the same visit with the following exception: the intra-nasal H1N1 vaccine and the intra-nasal seasonal flu vaccine should not be administered at the same visit; they should be separated by 4 weeks to ensure that each vaccine is maximally effective. However, an IM injection of either vaccine can be given with an intra-nasal vaccine.
If your child receives influenza vaccine outside of our clinic, please let us know so we can include it in your child’s medical record. Feel free to use mail, fax or secure patient portal if our phones are busy.
Who should get the vaccine?
All persons up to 24 years of age are considered in a risk group for infection and should get the vaccine.
The 5 target groups for priority vaccination with H1N1 vaccine are:
- Pregnant women
- People who live with or provide care to infants younger than 6 months
- Children and young adults ages 6 months to 24 years
- People aged 25 to 64 years who have chronic conditions that place them a risk for influenza related complications
Vaccine should still be offered for patients with prior proven H1N1 infection. Tamiflu can inhibit effectiveness of nasal vaccine if given 48 hours before and up to 2 weeks after. No interaction with injectable influenza vaccine.
Where can I get the vaccine?
The vaccine has been slow to produce and in short supply (as of October). All vaccine is being purchased by the government and distributed by health department to clinics and schools. We continue to receive small batches of vaccines each week and are distributing through walk-in Saturday clinics. We are posting updates regarding availability on our site as new information is available. Walk-in clinics are from 0900 to 12noon on Saturdays when vaccine is available.
More information from CDC vaccination page.
