A shortfall in the supply of the swine flu vaccine has been predicted by health officials, as the numbers of cases grow to levels unprecedented for this time of year. Forty three children have died from swine flu since Aug. 30 , nearly the same number that usually die in an entire flu season. Nineteen of the forty three who died were teenagers, and sixteen were from five to eleven years old; the rest were under five.
The CDC reports that there will be about 25% fewer doses this month than expected. Originally expected were 40 million doses; now the number looks to be closer to 30 million. The production process is complex and taking longer than expected. CDC’s advisory committee recommended the following groups to take the 2009 H1N1 vaccine:
- Pregnant women: higher risk of complications and can potentially provide protection to infants who cannot be vaccinated;
- Household contacts and caregivers for children younger than 6 months of age: younger infants are at higher risk of influenza-related complications and cannot be vaccinated. Vaccination of those in close contact with infants younger than 6 months old might help protect infants;
- Healthcare and emergency medical services personnel: can be a potential source of infection for vulnerable patients. Also, increased absenteeism in this population could reduce healthcare system capacity;
- All people from 6 months through 24 years of age
- Children from 6 months through 18 years of age: cases of 2009 H1N1 influenza have been seen in children who are in close contact with each other in school and day care settings, which increases the likelihood of disease spread, and
- Young adults 19 through 24 years of age: many cases of 2009 H1N1 influenza have been seen in these healthy young adults and they often live, work, and study in close proximity, and they are a frequently mobile population; and,
- Persons aged 25 through 64 years who have health conditions associated with higher risk of medical complications from influenza.
“While the H1N1 flu virus has been the focus of attention since spring, it is important that we do not forget the risks posed by the seasonal flu,” said Mark Cooper, director of health at The Westport Weston Health District.
He assured residents that the District still has seasonal flu vaccine available, despite reports of shortages, and strongly encourages the those of Westport and Weston to get immunized.
Seasonal flu shots will be available on at the Westport Weston Health District, 180 Bayberry Lane, on the following dates and times: Oct. 29, 1 – 3 p.m.;
Nov. 2, 4 – 6:30 p.m., and Nov. 3, 4 – 6:30 p.m.
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