Novel Influenza A (H1N1) Vaccine

MHD will follow the CDC Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommendations regarding five key priority groups for the following five key target groups:

1. Pregnant woman
2. Persons who live with or care for children less than 6 months of age
3. Healthcare and emergency services personnel

4. Persons between the age of 6 months and 24 years of age

5. Persons from age 25 to 64 years of age who are at higher risk for Novel Influenza A (H1N1) because of chronic health disorders or compromised immune systems.

Wisconsin is expected to receive approximately 500,000 doses of Novel Influenza A (H1N1) Vaccine by mid October.

• CDC continues to provide guidance that identifies the need to provide 2 separate doses of Novel Influenza A (H1N1) Vaccine to children less than 10 years old.
  • It is anticipated that Novel Influenza A (H1N1) Vaccine will be available in two forms: injectable (killed virus) vaccine, and intra-nasal (live attenuated virus) vaccine.
  • The two doses of Novel Influenza A (H1N1) Vaccine (only for children <10 years old) should be administered at least 21 days apart.
  • Ideally individuals will receive the same type of Novel Influenza A (H1N1) Vaccine as the initial dose. If the same type of Novel Influenza A (H1N1) Vaccine is not available, a different type of vaccine may be used as long as the other vaccine can be administered to the individual.
  • It is anticipated that individuals who fall within the Novel Influenza A (H1N1) vaccine target groups will also be able to receive a Seasonal Influenza vaccination at the same time; however, simultaneous administration of intranasal seasonal and intranasal novel influenza vaccine is not recommended.

H1N1 Vaccine Safety Information

The latest information on H1N1 Vaccine Safety Information written by Milwaukee Area physician leaders.

Seasonal Influenza Vaccine

Novel Influenza A (H1N1) Vaccine is not intended to replace Seasonal Influenza Vaccine.

• Seasonal Influenza Vaccine will be available in two forms: injectable (killed virus) vaccine, and intra-nasal (live attenuated virus) vaccine.
• Individuals should not delay being vaccinated for seasonal influenza while waiting until Novel Influenza A (H1N1) vaccine becomes available.

Antiviral Medication

 Antiviral treatment with neuraminidase inhibitors (Tamiflu® or Relenza®) is recommended for individuals who are suspected or confirmed with Novel Influenza A (H1N1) infection.

• Treatment should occur for individuals who are severely ill or hospitalized, or for individuals who are at risk for medical complications due to Novel Influenza A (H1N1) infection.
• Although some seasonal influenza A viruses have widespread resistance to neuraminidase inhibitors, at this time almost all circulating influenza is the Novel Influenza A (H1N1) strain, not seasonal.