Is there a vaccine available?
Yes. Both adjuvanted and non-adjuvanted H1N1 vaccines are now available.
Who should get the vaccine now?
The H1N1 vaccine became available in British Columbia in a phased approach beginning the week of October 26. Each week, the immunization program has been expanded to cover more and more groups for whom the vaccine is strongly recommended.
As of November 20, all BC residents who want to be immunized against the H1N1 flu virus are eligible to receive the free vaccine.
Not everyone will be able to be immunized immediately, since vaccine supply varies regionally.
Each area is gauging supply and demand, and there may be some differences in timing of vaccine availability.
Go to the online Flu Clinic Locator to find a clinic near you, or contact your family doctor.
Is the H1N1 swine flu virus the same as human H1N1 viruses?
No. The H1N1 pandemic is very different from typical influenza seasons. While H1N1 infections, so far, have been generally mild, H1N1 is infecting more and younger people than usual. It is very unusual to have a higher risk of severe influenza infection among younger people. Compared with seasonal influenza, we are expecting a greater proportion of the young population to suffer severe outcomes.
For more information on the H1N1 vaccine, visit ImmunizeBC
