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H1N1 Vaccine Q&A

Last Updated: November 24th, 2009

 

What is H1N1 Influenza?

H1N1 Flu Virus is a new type of Influenza A Virus which was first found in humans in the Spring of 2009. It has been reported around the world including Canada (and PEI). The symptoms of H1N1 Flu Virus are similar to those of regular influenza and include cough with or without fever plus one of the following: sore throat, body aches and pains, fatigue and lack of appetite. Gastrointestinal symptoms (like vomiting and diarrhea) may also be present.


What should you know about the H1N1 Influenza vaccine? 

 

  • It is provided at no cost to all residents of PEI who want it
  • It is made the same way as the seasonal influenza vaccine but protects against the H1N1 influenza virus
  • The H1N1 vaccine is made of killed H1N1 influenza particles and cannot give you the H1N1 influenza disease
  • The vaccine contains an additive called an adjuvant which helps the vaccine to give better immunity. Adjuvants are used in other vaccines
  • The vaccine is given by injection into the arm of children over one year of age and adults. It is given into the thigh of infants aged 6 months to one year
  • Children aged 6 months and up to 35 months of age require two doses of the vaccine to develop adequate immunity. Everyone else requires one dose
  • It takes two weeks after receiving the vaccine to develop immunity
  • Influenza vaccines are not given to children under 6 months of age and therefore it is important for their household contacts and primary caregivers to get immunized

 

Who should receive the H1N1 vaccine?
The H1N1 vaccine is recommended for everyone.Those most at risk of complications from the virus were offered the vaccine first. This includes:
  • Children aged 6 months to school entry
  • Pregnant women
  • Members of the First Nation and Aboriginal community
  • Persons under age 65 years with chronic health conditions
  • Health care workers involved in the delivery of essential services
  • Household contacts and care providers of infants less than 6 months of age and of persons who cannot be immunized because of current illnesses

Who should NOT receive the H1N1 vaccine?

You should not receive the influenza vaccine if you: 

  • Had a severe allergic reaction to the seasonal influenza vaccine in the past.
  • Have a severe allergy to eggs or any of the ingredients in the vaccine. Advise the clinic staff of your or your childs health concern at the clinic.
  • Are ill with a fever at the time of immunization. You may return at a later date for the vaccine.
  • Have experienced Guillain-Barre Syndrome in the past.
 

What can you expect after getting the H1N1 vaccine?

  • Discomfort at the site of the injection, including swelling or redness
  • Fever, fatigue and muscle aches that may last up to two days
  • As with all vaccines, there is a very small chance that a more serious reaction can occur 

    Clinic staff are trained to monitor and treat these possible reactions
Individuals are asked to stay in the waiting area for 20 minutes after receiving their immunization
 

What can you do if you get a reaction to the H1N1 vaccine?

  • Place a cold compress on the injection site to reduce discomfort.
  • You may take (or give your child) acetaminophen or ibuprofen (eg. Tylenol or Advil).
  • DO NOT give Aspirin (ASA) to children under 18 years due to its possible link with Reye’s Syndrome. 

 

What are your responsibilities?

  • Before you receive the vaccine, tell the immunizer if you or your child have any health problems.
  • Report to Public Health or your physician if you or your child have a severe or unusual reaction after the vaccine is administered.
  • Maintain an updated record of your and your child’s immunizations.
 
 
 
 
 
 

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