This next post is going to consist of any new developments regarding the H1N1 flu, along with additional information about the flu. It has been reported by the CDC (the Center for Disease Control and Prevention) that the H1N1 flu is now widespread in 37 states and there has been an increase in outpatient visits, hospitalizations, and deaths. However, on the bright side, the H1N1 vaccine is now available to be ordered by states. Out of the 6.8 million doses available, 3.7 million doses of the vaccine have already been ordered by health professionals in certain states. Dr. Anthony Fauci of the National Institutes of Health has reported that it is completely safe to get the seasonal flu shot and the H1N1 vaccine simultaneously. Right now, the availability of the H1N1 vaccine is very limited; however, in the next few weeks, production rates will greatly increase and the availability will as a result, increase.
Certain groups of people should definitely receive the H1N1 vaccines, these groups include: pregnant women, healthcare workers and emergency medical services personnel, people who live with or provide care for infants under six months old, children and young adults ages 6 months through 24 years, and people aged 25 through 64 years who have medical conditions that put them at higher risk for serious illness and influenza-related complications (such as asthma, diabetes, kidney conditions, and heart disease). As young people, we are all at a high risk of contracting the H1N1 flu, therefore, it is highly recommended that we all get the vaccine and make a decision to protect ourselves against this dangerous situation.
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