H1N1 Flu Vaccines Arrive

Healthcare workers in Indiana and Tennessee were among the first to receive the new H1N1 flu vaccinations today, according to national reports and federal health authorities. In order to inoculate Americans against the deadly H1N1 disease, the U.S. government has purchased over 190 million doses of the vaccine, in both injectable and spray forms, from five vaccine manufacturers. Shipments are scheduled in 10-20 million doses per week over the course of the next few months.

Amid concerns from the public about the safety of the vaccine, health authorities are strongly urging those who have higher risk factors for becoming seriously ill -- including pregnant women, young children, the elderly, and people with chronic health conditions such as diabetes or heart disease -- to get vaccinated. From August 30 until September 26, the Centers for Disease Control tallied 16,174 hospitalizations nationwide and 1,379 deaths associated with influenza virus infection. Twenty-seven states have reported widespread flu activity.

Health officials recommend people reduce their chances of getting sick by frequent hand washing and sanitizing, sneezing or coughing into a tissue or sleeve (rather than hand), and staying home from work or school when ill.