HEADLINE: Officials lower expectations for size of first novel flu vaccine deliveries

SUMMARY: The number of H1N1 vaccine doses expected to be available this October has been dropped from 120 million to 45 million. Several manufacturers are still producing their seasonal flu vaccines, so they are not able to produce the new vaccine as quickly as expected. In addition, H1N1 antigen yields are lower than expected, resulting in fewer doses.

STORY LINK
: http://www.cidrap.umn.edu/cidrap/content/influenza/swineflu/news/aug1409vaccine.html

ANALYSIS: The disappointing development of a smaller-than-anticipated vaccine production cycle reflects the realities of planning to immunize against the flu. The projected output of 120 million doses would have been insufficient to immunize all individuals identified as at risk or high priority. The nearly two-thirds drop in availability reinforces the need for prudent planning.

Non-pharmaceutical interventions such as social distancing, enhanced personal hygiene, cough/sneeze etiquette and isolation of those already ill are effective measures to limit the spread of novel influenza A/H1N1 -- as well as seasonal flu.

With the projected infection rates as high as 40 percent for H1N1 and 20 percent for season flu, the possibility of 50 percent absenteeism is real, whether due directly to illness or to care for someone else.   Preparations for alternate staffing and operations are in order.  Similarly, families should, when possible, ensure a sufficient supply of food and household supplies to support being home for several days.