FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – November 23, 2009

H1N1 vaccine safe and effective

The 10 metropolitan area health departments would like to ensure the public that the H1N1 vaccine is safe and effective in keeping individuals from contracting the H1N1 virus and to encourage individuals to get vaccinated when the vaccine is available to them. The manufacturing process for H1N1 vaccine is very similar to the process for seasonal flu vaccine, which has a very good safety track record. Over the years, hundreds of millions of Americans have received seasonal flu vaccines, with very limited side effects.

"Vaccination is the best way to prevent influenza infection and its complications," said Lougene Marsh, Johnson County Health Department Director, said. "The benefits of receiving the vaccine far outweigh the potential risks, especially in the very young and in pregnant women."

Side effects from the H1N1 vaccine have proven to be rare. Mild problems that have been experienced include soreness, redness, or swelling where the shot was given, fainting (mainly adolescents), headache, muscle aches, fever, and nausea. Life-threatening allergic reactions to vaccines are very rare. People who have a severe (life-threatening) allergy to chicken eggs or to any other substance in the vaccine should not be vaccinated.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) closely monitor the safety of vaccines licensed for use in the United States in cooperation with state and local health departments, healthcare providers, and other partners. Individuals who have received vaccination and have experienced side effects should contact their healthcare provider.

It is important to note that influenza vaccines do not protect against other viruses that cause respiratory illnesses. Even after vaccination, individuals should wash their hands frequently, cover coughs and sneezes, and stay home when sick.
For more information on H1N1 vaccine, go to www.flu.gov, or contact your local public health department.

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