by Olivia Bredbenner

Created on: November 17, 2009   Last Updated: November 18, 2009

Who should get the H1N1 vaccine, can they get it, and when ?

There are many discussions taking place by those who are questioning the delays in receiving the H1N1 vaccine. According to Robert Goldberg of the New York Post. "The shortage of swine flu vaccine results not from company greed or outside demand but almost entirely from the governments decision to pander to unfounded and unscientific fear."

It appears that the public demand for single dose vials set back the production of multi dose vials that are easier to make. However, it is a tribute to the effectiveness of our pandemic planning, and new technology, that we will likely have plenty of H1N1 vaccine within a month.

"The government has done a admirable job in communicating with the public about the H1N1 influenza and boosting the immunization rates." However, due to "concerns" the system may have been "hamstrung by pseudoscience evangelists."

In addition to the ongoing challenges related to forecasting the path of the H1N1 influenza virus, containing the outbreaks and educating and protecting the public. The CDC has the unenviable task of soothing the outraged public, who is unable to attain the vaccine, after receiving the education and the public health advisement to get vaccinated. Delays are causing great frustration in some communities.

The symptoms of the influenza H1N1 is similar to other viruses that are causing large numbers of people to get sick. Specific testing called "RT-PCR " is needed to tell if an illness is caused by a specific influenza strain. It is a rapid flu test that doctors can do in their offices. If you test positive, you should have some immunity and may choose not to get vaccinated. However, if you choose to get vaccinated, it is not considered to be harmful.

The vaccine is available, however, the initial supplies are limited. The CDC has an Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices {ACIP} who has issued separate recommendations on who should get vaccinated against the H1N1 flu. It is essential that some of the population get vaccinated before the general population. Pregnant women, those that are caretakers or live with children under 6months of age, health care and emergency medical services personnel with direct patient contact, children 6 months of age through 4 years of age, those with high risk medical conditions are at greater risk for influenza-related complications.

There is an ongoing need for assessments according to the supply and demand . Once the

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