UPDATE: TRIALS OF THE H1N1 VACCINE FOR CHILDREN
The National Institute of Health received the first data from H1N1 vaccine trials in children on Monday.
Approximately 600 children were in the H1N1 studies. Officials from the NIH said that there were no adverse reactions in any of the youngsters, including no redness or arm pain.
Ten days after receiving the vaccine, children 10 to 17 seem to be protected from H1N1 with one 15-microgram dose of the vaccine, but younger children, ages 6 months to 9 years, may have to have two doses depending on their health history. The H1N1 vaccine requires separate injections from the seasonal flu shots recommended for adults and children.
H1N1, commonly referred to as "swine flu," is a hybrid virus, with genetic elements of swine influenza, avian influenza, and human influenza. It is spread by coughing, sneezing and unclean hands.
The Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommends the following to prevent the spread of H1N1:
* Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
* If you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve, not your hands
* Dispose of used tissues in the trash.
* Clean your hands after coughing or sneezing; Washing with soap and water, or with alcohol- based hand cleaner.
* Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
* If you get sick, stay home from work or school, and limit your contact with others to keep from infecting them. People should stay home at least 24 hours after they are free of fever (100°F), or signs of a fever without the use of fever-reducing medications.
Despite its name, people cannot get swine flu from pork or pork products.
For more information visit the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Center for Disease Control. Authorities predict the H1N1 vaccine for children will be available by mid-October. Contact your child's healthcare provider for more information about the distribution of H1N1 vaccine.
