H1N1 Vaccine Allotment
Oct. 28, 2009 by dphillips
We have received our first allotment of H1N1 vaccine comprising 100 doses in multi-dose vials. This is the injectable (shot) form of the vaccine. This is an inactivated virus vaccine. It is being provided by the federal government and will be given at no cost. See Side Effects and Benefits below.
The Connecticut Department of Public Health has advised us that this batch of vaccine is reserved for health care providers and individuals 18 years and younger at high risk of complications from influenza. With future supply we anticipate broader target groups for vaccination.
Who qualifies for this batch of vaccine?
Students who are 18 or younger and are at high risk of complication from influenza due to asthma, diabetes, immune deficiency (due to disease or medication) or other conditions as detailed here: http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/highrisk.htm.
How do I schedule vaccination?
Email Joyce Walter (jwalter@wesleyan.edu). She will follow up with you and schedule you for vaccination during an upcoming clinic.
Side Effects
CDC expects that any side effects following vaccination with the 2009 H1N1 influenza vaccine would be rare. If side effects occur, they will likely be similar to those experienced following seasonal influenza vaccine. Mild problems that may be experienced include soreness, redness, or swelling where the shot was given, fainting (mainly adolescents), headache, muscle aches, fever, and nausea. If these problems occur, they usually begin soon after the shot and last 1-2 days. Life-threatening allergic reactions to vaccines are very rare.
Benefits
Although the efficacy of vaccination against pandemic H1N1 influenza A has not been proven, a study that modeled the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of vaccination suggested that vaccinating 40 percent of the population of a large US city (population 8.3 million) with a vaccine that is 75 percent effective in November 2009 would avert 1468 deaths, gain 49,422 quality-adjusted life-years, and save $302 million.