Frequently Asked Questions About Seasonal And H1N1 Flu Vaccine

When is the H1N1 vaccine coming? 
The delivery date of the vaccine is uncertain at this time. Delivery of vaccine may begin as early as mid-October.  It is possible though, that we may not begin receiving vaccine until November.

Where and when can I get the H1N1 vaccination?
The vaccinations will be given in a variety of settings  -- some at schools, some at doctors' offices and other locations to be announced. Watch for announcements in the news media and on our web site - www.genesishealth.com/flu.

How much will the H1N1 shots cost?
The H1N1 vaccine is provided at no charge. There is no charge at public health clinics. Private providers may charge an administration fee only for giving the shot - no more than $15.

Will my doctor give me the shot?
It has not been determined yet when physicians will be providing the H1N1 vaccinations.  Watch for announcements in the news media and updates on our web site.

Are the shots required?
No, the shots are recommended, but not required.  You can decide whether or not you or your children get the shots.

Will my children be able to get the shots at school?
The current plan of the Scott County Health Department is to give vaccinations at licensed preschools and primary and secondary schools.  Parents should pay attention to all papers that children bring home about flu shots.  Forms must be signed stating whether parents consent to or decline the shots.  You may also check the Scott County Health Department website at www.scottcountyiowa.com/health periodically for announcements about shots at schools.

Who can get the H1N1 vaccine?
When the vaccine first becomes available, it will be given to members of the priority populations as defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.  These are the people at the greatest risk for getting the H1N1 flu. They include:

• Pregnant women
• Household & caregiver contacts of children less than 6 months
• Healthcare & emergency medical services personnel
• Infants, children & young adults 6 months to 24 years
• Persons 25 through 64 years with a high-risk medical condition.

Will people who are not in the priority groups be able to get the H1N1 flu vaccine?

Once the priority populations have been vaccinated for H1N1 and vaccine supplies increase, healthy adults ages 25 through 64 years will receive the vaccine.  Then persons ages 65 or older, who are the least at risk for getting H1N1, will be vaccinated.

Why are people age 65 and older at the least risk 2009 H1N1?

Current studies indicate that the risk of infection, hospitalization, and death from the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus among persons age 65 years and older is less than is the risk for younger age groups. Studies suggest that there is some degree of preexisting immunity to the 2009 H1N1 strains, especially among adults older than age 60 years. One possible explanation is that some adults in this age group have had previous exposure, either through infection or vaccination, to influenza A (H1N1) virus.  People age 65 years and older are included as a priority group if they live with or care for infants younger than age 6 months or are a healthcare or emergency services provider.

Will the seasonal flu vaccine protect against the 2009 H1N1?
No, it is a different strain requiring a different vaccine.

When and where are seasonal flu shots for adults available?
Genesis public seasonal flu clinics in the Quad Cities and in Clinton County begin Oct. 2. Go to www.genesishealth.com/flu for a schedule of clinics. You can also ask your primary care physician or pediatrician about getting a flu shot.