Topics:

• Why the 2009 H1N1 Influenza Vaccine is Safe
• Common Side Effects of the 2009 H1N1 Influenza Vaccine
• Why it is Important to Receive the 2009 H1N1 Influenza Vaccine
• Initial Target Groups for the 2009 H1N1 Influenza Vaccine
• After the Initial Target Groups Are Vaccinated
• Vaccine Safety Monitoring
• Resources

• The Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are closely monitoring the safety of the licensed 2009 H1N1 influenza vaccine.
• The 2009 H1N1 influenza vaccine is being manufactured by each of the four seasonal influenza manufacturers with the same, well-established and licensed processes used to make seasonal influenza vaccine.
• Vaccines are held to the highest standard of safety and are continually monitored.
• The U.S. currently has the safest, most effective vaccine supply in history.
• As with seasonal influenza vaccine, the 2009 H1N1 vaccine will not contain an adjuvant.

(return to topics)

• Over the years, hundreds of millions of Americans have received influenza vaccines. The most common side effects are mild soreness, redness, tenderness or swelling where the shot was given.
• Serious adverse reactions are uncommon.
• When seasonal influenza vaccine is administered it has proven to be safe; however vaccines, like any medication, carry some risks. As H1N1 vaccine is produced using the same processes as seasonal influenza vaccine, it is anticipated that the safety of licensed 2009 H1N1 vaccine will be similar to seasonal influenza vaccines

(return to topics)

• Vaccination is the single best way to prevent influenza. 
• A decision not to immunize is risky, potentially putting the individual, and others who come into contact with him or her, at risk of getting the disease that could be dangerous or deadly.
• In some instances, the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus can cause serious health issues for healthy individuals.

(return to topics)

The CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), a group of 15 experts in immunization-related fields, makes recommendations for the prevention and control of vaccine-preventable diseases based on: evolving burden of illness caused by the virus, the age and risk groups most affected, progress in developing vaccines, anticipated vaccine supply, and various possible vaccination strategies. At the July 29, 2009 public meeting, ACIP recommended that these groups initially receive the 2009 H1N1 vaccine:

• Pregnant women: they are at higher risk of complications and can potentially provide protection to infants who cannot be vaccinated;

• Household contacts and caregivers for children younger than 6 months of age: younger infants are at higher risk of complications and cannot be vaccinated. Vaccination of those in close contact with infants younger than 6 months old might help protect infants by "cocooning" them from the virus;