So, why are we all out of influenza vaccine? Well, our particular clinic ordered our usual quantity, but received somewhere less than half of the doses. We keep being told by the supplier that we will receive more eventually. My understanding is that the companies have shifted over to providing the H1N1 vaccine and thus have not made as many of the seasonal flu shots yet.

Even the commercial pharmacies in town, by and large are out of flu shots. Here’s what I recommend: Don’t panic! We’ll get some more in eventually and in general this is a bit early for seasonal influenza based on prior years.

Regarding the H1N1 influenza shot (or nose spray), if you are pregnant or a child ages 2-9, we do recommend the influenza nose spray or the injection when it is available. We have some of the nose spray available for H1N1 right now. The shots are still to come.

If you are over 50 or so, you will not be getting the H1N1 on this first go ’round. After the younger population has received it, than the whole population will be eligible for it if you desire to get it.

I do recommend you receive the regular seasonal flu shot now (all patients) if you can find it.

DTD