H1N1 Updates

08/17/2009

Clinical trials were started in six centers around the country last week.It will take about 6 weeks before the results regarding the effectiveness of the vaccination is known.

High Risk groups have been identified and include; Healthcare workers, pregnant women and children between 6 months and 24 years.

It will probably be necessary to identify certain youth who are more at risk than others e.g. children with underlying heart or lung problems should be the first to receive the vaccine. The Youth Clinic is compiling a list of patients who are more at risk and we will notify these patients individually.

What is not known at this time

  • If the vaccine is effective
  • When the vaccine will arrive (we have heard October at the earliest).
  • How many doses we will receive
  • Where the vaccine will be given ( we have agreed to a site, but the county will decide where it is to be administered).
  • How many shots will be required to assure immunity