Vaccines Protect from Swine Flu

(Ivanhoe Newswire) -- Swine Flu is quickly spreading across the nation. Experts urge an aggressive vaccination program to prevent the outbreak's peak expected this fall.

Thirty- two percent of the American population is fall ill with H1N1, the swine flu virus. Findings are based on previous epidemiological studies and vaccine trials for seasonal flu vaccines. Researchers say the vaccine program needs to be implemented no later than mid September, at least one month prior to the expected flu peak. Crucial factors currently under study include the availability of an effective vaccine and the timing of the outbreak. Protective treatment may require two doses of vaccine delivered three weeks apart.

The program's design begins with children and ultimately vaccinates 70 percent of the population. Its highest priority is to slow the outbreak in the school system; an infected student infects an average of 2.4 additional children in his or her school.  High-risk groups identified by the U.S Center for Disease Control and prevention will be vaccinated after the children. This group includes healthcare and emergency services personnel, and those with chronic health disorders and compromised immune systems who are at risk for medical complications from swine flu.

Experts say vaccinations will be the most cost effective method of slowing down the pandemic. Other options analyzed include social distancing, and closing schools.

SOURCE: Science Express, September 11, 2009

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