The US Food and Drug Administration maintains the recent salmonella outbreak that resulted in millions of eggs being recalled nationwide will not affect the safety of the flu vaccines this season.
How the flu vaccine is manufactured
The flu vaccine is created by injecting the virus in a fertilized chicken egg. The virus grows in the egg white and is then harvested to make the vaccine. The use of eggs in this process has prompted concern in some Jersey residents.
FDA says the 2010-2011 flu vaccine is safe
But the FDA makes clear that the eggs used to create the vaccine are not the same eggs as those sold for consumption. In a report on the vaccine for the 2010-2011 flu season, the FDA states, "The recent August, 2010, salmonella outbreak in shell eggs for food consumption and subsequent recall does not affect 2010-2011 Influenza Virus Vaccine production, safety or availability."
The FDA further reiterates its commitment to safety and testing, stating, "The Influenza Virus Vaccine undergoes extensive testing and the vaccine manufacturing process is highly regulated under FDA's current good manufacturing practice requirements, including annual inspections of the manufacturing processes and facilities."
New Jersey requires vaccinations for young children
The state of New Jersey requires all young children aged 6 months to 5 years attending school to receive the flu vaccine. Advocates maintain vaccinations are important to maintain overall public health. This year, the FDA says just one flu vaccination will be required. It includes 3 strains: H1N1, an A (H3N2), and a B strain.
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