H1N1 Vaccine — U.S. Trials Announced

Trials for the H1N1 vaccine will commence in August this year in the United States.  The announcement was made by the University of Maryland, yesterday, July 22.

Due to the fact that the Swine Flu virus has very significant potential to cause illness or hospitalizations, the effort is to have the vaccine tested for safety and effectiveness prior to the flu season — which is officially considered to be in the Fall and Winter.  Upcoming clinical trials are expected to enroll 1000 adults and children at 10 centers around the country.  Additional trials may also be undertaken to test how the Swine Flu vaccine works in combination with the seasonal flu vaccine.

A couple of tips to all concerned as we approach the Fall season:

1.  Like other flu types, H1N1 is thought to be spread mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing.  Simple precautions of covering one’s nose and mouth while coughing/sneezing, and good hygiene (washing hands frequently) are common sense precautions that all should follow.

2.  CDC recommends that if you are sick, or suspect you are, you must stay at home to prevent the spread of infection to others. 

3.  Stay updated regularly with respect to news on this topic.  Being informed is on top of the list with this pandemic.  The CDC hotline for this subject is 1-800-CDC-INFO.