Perhaps you’ve heard that there are 2 types of H1N1 vaccine available at flu shot clinics around the GTA. While both work effectively at protecting you from the virus, many people are unsure of what the true difference is or how it might affect them. Here are the facts.
The adjuvanted H1N1 flu shot, the one most frequently given in Canada, includes a substance that boosts an individual’s immune system and increases their response to the vaccine. Boosters such as this are often included in other well-known vaccinations like those for Tetanus and Hepatitis B. According to Health Canada, the adjuvant in Canada’s H1N1 vaccine is made up of natural ingredients such as water, squalene oil and vitamin E, making it safe for use for the general public and especially important for people with chronic health conditions, young children, those over 65 and breastfeeding women who can stand to benefit the most from the immune system boost it provides.
The unadjuvanted H1N1 vaccine does not contain the immunity booster, and although it was proven safe in clinical trials, the limited safety data available on adjuvant use during pregnancy has prompted Health Canada to recommend the unadjuvanted vaccine for pregnant women in any stage of their pregnancy. Earlier this month, Health Canada announced that it had acquired 2 million doses of the unadjuvanted H1N1 vaccine for distribution across the country. Clinics around the GTA are well stocked and ready to provide it to patients who qualify.
Remember to always check with your doctor if you are unsure which vaccine is best for you. Find more details about the two H1N1 vaccines from Health Canada’s website, the Public Health Agency of Canada’s website or at your local H1N1 vaccine clinic.
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