Important Information about the H1N1 Vaccine                                 
 

  2009 H1N1 Information for Parents who have Children with High-Risk Medical Conditions
This podcast, intended for parents, discusses high-risk medical conditions that put children at risk for flu complications and how to protect children from the flu. Created: 11/25/2009 by National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities (NCBDDD). Date Released: 11/25/2009. Series Name: CDC Featured Podcasts.

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Many areas of Michigan are experiencing outbreaks of the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus.  It is important that Michigan citizens understand the benefits of vaccination, the projected supply of vaccine in the state, and who should get vaccinated NOW.

The 2009 H1N1 influenza vaccine is being shipped from the manufacturer directly to vaccine providers.  As of October 16, Michigan received approximately 151,200 doses of the vaccine.  Due to the temporary limited supply of the 2009 H1N1 influenza vaccine, it is important that individuals at risk for influenza complications get vaccinated first.  The MDCH recommends that the first people to receive the 2009 H1N1 influenza vaccine are:

First target group:

• All people from 6 months through 24 years old.
• Pregnant women.

Second target group:

• Anyone who has regular contact with children younger than 6 months old.
• Healthcare and emergency medical services personnel.
• People 25 through 64 years old who have underlying health conditions.

The 2009 H1N1 influenza vaccine manufacturers continue to produce vaccine, and this is continually being shipped to Michigan.  By mid to late November, MDCH expects that anyone who wants a 2009 H1N1 influenza vaccine will be able to get one.

The most common side effects following flu vaccinations are mild, such as soreness, redness, tenderness or swelling where the shot was given.  The MDCH and federal partners will be closely monitoring for any signs that the vaccine is causing unexpected adverse events.

The Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH) expects the 2009 H1N1 influenza vaccine to have a similar safety profile as seasonal flu vaccines, which have a very good safety track record.  Over the years, millions of Michigan citizens have received seasonal flu vaccines.  Vaccination is the best way to prevent influenza infection and its complications.  The MDCH believe that the benefits of vaccination with the 2009 H1N1 influenza vaccine will far outweigh the limited risks.

Please see Michigan’s flu website at www.michigan.gov/flu for the most up-to-date information regarding seasonal and H1N1 influenza.