H1N1 vaccine launch could be rough

from KY3 News

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Story Updated: Sep 25, 2009

The first doses of the H1N1 flu vaccine will be sent out within the next two weeks. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control expects about 6 million doses to be distributed in early October but admits the first few weeks of vaccinations could be a little bumpy.

Labs are making the final push this week to test and get the H1N1 flu vaccine ready to distribute.

"We'll have some vaccine in early October but the bulk will be ready in mid- to late October," said Dr. Thomas Frieden, director of the CDC.

While there will eventually be plenty of vaccine for everyone, the process is still confusing for some.

"It's going to be a little bumpy," said Frieden.

Although pregnant women are at the top of the list to get vaccinated, they won't be able to use the first batch of doses delivered because it will be a nasal spray that contains a live virus. Those women will have to wait for the shot. Instead, it is recommended the spray go to children, another at-risk group, although many parents now say they won't get their kids vaccinated.

"I know of very few kids who have contracted it thus far. I think there's a little bit of an alarmist mentality going on," said mom Marty Griffin.

In fact, a new poll at the University of Michigan shows less than half of parents plan to have their child vaccinated against H1N1. Doctors say that could be a mistake with the virus spreading so quickly through schools.

"The occasional very severely ill child admitted to an intensive care unit -- all the more reason to get the vaccine when it becomes available," said Dr. William Schaffner of Vanderbilt University.

While parents decide if their kids will get the shot, states will soon be deciding how best distribute it to those who want it. The federal government will send doses based on a state's population, leaving it up to state governments to get it to those in need.

A lot of you are also concerned about cost. Since the government paid for the vaccine, it's free and the government is asking health providers to waive any of their fees for administering the vaccine. You should check with your doctor to see if you or your children should get one.

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