RSS
Home
CDC studies indicate no H1N1 protection with seasonal flu vaccine
Print
Email
RSS
Subscribe
Many people are wondering if the standard seasonal flu vaccine could help to protect against the H1N1 swine flu virus. Unfortunately, a study from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) indicate there is little to no crossover protection.
CDC seasonal influenza A vaccine report
Case reports from 356 patients who contracted swine flu in May and June of 2009 were reviewed. These patients represented eight different U.S. states and were adults, ranging in age from 18 to over 50. Subjects in the study had received the seasonal influenza A vaccine from Sept 2008 through Feb 2009. This study showed no protective effect from the seasonal flu vaccine and no greater chance of contracting swine flu after receiving the seasonal flu shot.
Other studies confirm swine flu results
An Australian study showed similar lack of protection for swine flu from the seasonal flu vaccine. A study in New York that has not been published confirmed these previous results in children. Five studies from Canada show that not only does the influenza A vaccine not protect from swine flu, it may actually increase risk of contracting swine flu.
Swine flu and seasonal flu are different viruses
These results are not entirely surprising. Seasonal flu virus and the H1N1 virus are different enough that one vaccine is not likely to prevent both illnesses. Specific vaccines remain necessary at this time. People wanting protection from swine flu should contact their healthcare provider regarding availability of the vaccine. The American Lung Association is offering a Flu Clinic Locator to assist the public in finding places where the vaccines are being given.
Related Articles:
Comments
