H1N1 Vaccine News

CDC has released the latest H1N1 vaccine news and the priority populations for receiving the vaccine. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) met yesterday and determined recommendations. Priority populations include:

• pregnant women,
• infant caregivers,
  
• health care and emergency workers,
  
• those 6 months - 4 years old, and
  
• those 5 - 18 years old who have a complicating health condition such as a compromised immune system or chronic health disorder.

Before the vaccine is widely released, it will go through a series of clinical trials to test for safety. Officials are hoping the vaccine, made by 5 companies, will be available in October. It is important to note that there will be two influenza vaccines this fall: one for the H1N1 virus and one for the 'normal' seasonal virus. Each protects against a separate strain, and you will need to be vaccinated against both for full influenza protection.

Atlanta Journal-Constitution article
MMWR article about seasonal influenza vaccine