H1N1 Vaccine: Is It Too Late to Get Yours?

Posted in Health Insurance

October 29th, 2009

If you’ve been itching to get your H1N1 vaccine but fear it’s too late, you’ll be happy to know it’s not. According to Health and Human Sources secretary, Kathleen Sebelius, who spoke recently on ABC’s Good Morning America, over 250 million doses have been ordered and as many as 16.5 million doses are being made available.

Concerns about the Flu’s Peak

Recently, concerns over it being to late to receive the vaccine have surfaced after one estimate surfaced that the H1N1 flu may peak around Oct. 31, 2009. However, Sebelius noted that other viruses have often come in waves (one in the fall and one in the spring), meaning that getting the vaccine now can help people avoid the virus if another wave hits.

Has the U.S. Underestimated the Virus’ Effects?

With 1,000 U.S. deaths so far (30 percent of those patients being healthy with no underlying conditions) and over 20,000 hospitalizations, many are questioning whether the United States underestimated the flu, which has been declared a national emergency. Sebelius noted that while the shortage of the vaccine is troubling; most who contract the virus have no symptoms any greater than the seasonal flu. She does admit, however, that finding the vaccine earlier could have helped to prevent more illnesses.

What to Do if You’re Waiting for the Vaccine

If you’re still waiting for the vaccine, you can stay updated on where doses are available by visiting the National flu shot locator. Until you can get yours, it’s a good idea to wash your hands regularly and keep yourself linked to reputable health insurance providers in the event you need to see a doctor for treatment.

Have you received your H1N1 vaccine? Do you plan to?