Frequently asked questions about flu shots

Q: Is there a vaccination protecting against H1N1 (swine flu)?

A: The H1N1 (Swine) flu vaccine is expected to be available in mid to late-October.

Q: Where can I get an H1N1 vaccination?

A: Contact your primary care physician if you are interested in receiving a H1N1 vaccination. If you do not have a primary care physician, call 1.800.Sparrow (1.800.772.7769) for a referral.

Q: Can anyone get the H1N1 vaccination?

A: The Centers for Disease Control does not expect that there will be a shortage of H1N1 vaccine, but vaccine availability and demand can be unpredictable. It is likely that initially, the vaccine will be available only in limited quantities.

Q: If the H1N1 vaccine will only be available in limited quantities, who gets first priority?

A: The CDC recommends several groups receive the H1N1 flu vaccine as soon as it becomes available:

• Pregnant women
• Caregivers for children 6 months and younger
• Health care and emergency medical services personnel
• All people from 6 months to 24 years of age
• People age 25-64 who have health conditions associated with higher risk of medical complications from influenza (heart disease, diabetes, etc.)

Q: I'm older than 64 and I'm typically considered high-priority for a flu shot. Why am I not a high-priority this year?

A: Current studies indicate the risk for infection among persons age 65 or older is less than the risk for younger age groups. Once high-priority groups receive their immunization, it will be offered to you as well.

Q: Will the seasonal flu shot protect against H1N1?

A: No.

Q: Will the H1N1 flu shot protect against seasonal flu?

A: No. To most effectively protect yourself, you should receive both seasonal and H1N1 immunizations.

Q: Can both shots be administered at the same time?

A: Yes.

Q: Who should I contact about getting the seasonal flu shot?

A: Your primary care physician.

For additional reading, please visit http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/vaccination/public/vaccination_qa_pub.htm