Flu Vaccine Frequently Asked Questions
Why is vaccination important?
Vaccination is one of the most effective ways to minimize suffering and death from all influenza. Each year, in the United States, on average 36,000 people die and 200,000 are hospitalized from flu-related complications. Of those hospitalized, 20,000 are children younger than 5 years old.
The vast majority of hospitalizations and deaths occur in children who have not been vaccinated.
Do I need to get both a regular vaccine and a swine flu vaccine?
Yes. Children need vaccination for both types of flu. Preventing an infection with the seasonal flu is an important factor in keeping children healthy in general this fall. A child suffering a bout with the regular seasonal flu may become more susceptible to contracting other infectious diseases including the swine flu at the same time.
In addition, preliminary studies suggest that vaccination with the seasonal flu vaccine may help reduce the severity of the infection with the swine flu.
Because of that, vaccinations for both the seasonal flu and the new variant are critical.
Can I get both vaccinations at the same time?
Because the swine flu is an unfamiliar variety, vaccine is not yet available. The U.S. government is now working to produce more than 150 million doses will be distributed in late fall. The normal seasonal flu vaccine will be available earlier and health professionals strongly recommend getting the seasonal flu vaccine as soon as possible.
Where will the swine flu vaccine be available?
Vaccine will be available at CHKD and CHKD-affiliated practices and health centers as well as vaccination centers organized by local health departments, schools and workplaces.
CHKD will update you as more information becomes available.
Will there be enough swine flu vaccine for my child?
Yes. The vaccine will be made available first to the following groups:
- Children and young adults from 6 months to 24 years
- Pregnant women
- People caring for infants under 6 months of age
- Health care workers and emergency medical responders
- People aged 25 to 64 years with underlying medical conditions (e.g. asthma, diabetes)
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