http://flu.gov/news/blogs/blog20100222.html
Flu Home > News, PSAs & Outreach
Protection Against 2009 H1N1 To Be Included in 2010-2011 Seasonal Flu Vaccine
February 22, 2010
A key U.S. Food and Drug Administration Advisory Committee recommended today that protection against the 2009 H1N1 virus, which was first identified last April, be included in the 2010-2011 seasonal influenza vaccine starting this fall. That means that, barring some unforeseen circumstance, this fall, most Americans will be able to return to the traditional routine of having one flu vaccine to protect them against the major circulating flu viruses. As is always the case with seasonal vaccine, younger children who have never had a seasonal vaccine will still need two doses.
Today’s recommendation to include protection against the 2009 H1N1 flu strain in next season’s flu vaccine was made by the FDA’s Vaccines and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee. The committee’s recommendations typically guide vaccine manufacturers in preparing each season’s flu vaccines. The World Health Organization has made the same recommendation.
This recommendation will go into effect for next fall’s flu season. In the meantime, you can still protect yourself against the H1N1 flu by getting your H1N1 vaccine now. Supplies are still available and getting immunized now can protect you against H1N1 while it continues to circulate. H1N1 has led to nearly 260,000 hospitalizations and approximately 12,000 deaths in the United States. Use our handy vaccine locator to find a vaccination location near you.
You know, I think that deserves its own thread. I’m going to post it.