Nebraska News
(2009-08-17)
A public health system accustomed to fighting one seasonal flu will now have to fight two.
The H1N1 flu or swine flu didn't appear until regular flu vaccine production was already underway in the U.S.
That means people who want to prevent both illnesses will have to get three shots - one for the regular flu and two for the new flu.
Bridie Kent is a spokeswoman for the Kent County Health Department. She says this flu season could be a rough ride.
"In the southern hemisphere where they've already had their flu season, and they saw both strains circulating at the same time," says Kent. "And we also know here in U.S. we've seen more flu than usual in the summer. We don't usually see that in the summer."
Kent says the ultimate goal is to have enough of the new vaccine for everyone who wants it, "but in the beginning chances are we won't have enough right off the bat for everybody."
That means the H1N1 vaccine will be given first to people on the priority list - pregnant women, infants, and young people through the age of 24, who seem to be particularly vulnerable to the swine flu.
The shortage, hopefully temporary, could lead to a long waiting list in October and November for others who want the new vaccine.
Mark Valacek is Director of the Community Health Division for the Genesee County Health Department.
"So you may see a push for individuals to get their regular seasonal vaccine early so we've got that out of the way once the novel H1N1 vaccine is available."
For regular flu, most people get their shots from private pediatricians, physicians and Visiting Nurses clinics.
Health officials plan to rely on that network for both flu vaccines.
But if the H1N1 flu comes on fast and furious, the backup plan could require mass vaccination clinics at schools.
And while people are waiting to get all their shots, they'll get lots of other prevention advice, including:
1. If you cough, cover your mouth with your sleeve, or use a kleenex and toss the kleenex away immediately.
2. Wash your hands often for 20 seconds, using warm water and soap.
3. Avoid touching your face.
4. And stay home if you're sick, to avoid infecting others.
Bridie Kent says Kent County plans to run more public service announcements than usual, and teach school officials how to instruct their students on avoiding the flu.
Health departments say federal funding for the effort will help but they could still be stretched thin.
The regular flu vaccine should be available by late August.
Limited amounts of the swine flu vaccine will likely be ready for the most vulnerable groups by late September, with more coming in October and November.
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