By Mark Huffman
ConsumerAffairs.com
November 3, 2009
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says there has been a steady increase in the amount of H1N1 flu vaccine made available to the public in the last week, but the total still falls far short of expectations.
"I know it's frustrating and inconvenient when people try to find the flu vaccine and can't get it," said Dr. Thomas R. Frieden, Director of CDC. During a media briefing Tuesday. "As of now, there are 31.8 million doses available."
Frieden said nearly all cases of the flu reported to CDC so far this season have been of the H1N1 type. There has been very little seasonal flu reported, he said.
Ironically, there is plenty of seasonal flu vaccine available. Seasonal flu vaccine is not distributed by the government, but through pharmacies and medical providers.
"There is a huge demand for seasonal flu vaccine this year, probably as large as we've ever seen," Frieden said.
There is also a big demand for H1N1 vaccine, but far fewer doses available. Frieden said he's worried that consumers will become frustrated when they can't find the vaccine and give up.
"I urge everyone to be persistent," he said. "It's important to get a vaccination."
Pregnant women, in particular, are being urged to get vaccinated against H1N1. Young people also appear to be susceptible to getting it.
Frieden said the flu season will last until May, and said it is unlike any the U.S. has experienced in the last 50 years.
