2009 is coming to a close, and it has been an exciting an unpredictable year.  The biggest story, of course, has been the 2009 H1N1 “Swine Flu” virus.  After experiencing a true pandemic with unprecedented numbers of sick kids in September and October, flu activity has dropped dramatically over the past month.  Historically, seasonal flu activity peaks around January and February every year.  In addition, we do expect a return of H1N1 activity at some point this winter or spring.  It is certainly not too late to get the vaccine for both seasonal and H1N1 influenza.  We have good supplies of both vaccines for all age groups, 6 months and older.  You can call for an appointment for a nurse visit to receive the vaccines.  Unfortunately, there have been two product recalls of H1N1 vaccine.  These were not safety-related recalls, but the affected lots had dropped below the ideal level of potency.  We did have some of our lots of the injectable vaccine for children 6-35 months of age recalled, but none of our nasal spray vaccines have been recalled.  Fortunately, there is no need to do anything differently.  The recalled vaccines are still felt to be adequately effective, especially if a booster dose is given as recommended 28 days or more after the first dose.  With the decrease in flu activity and questions about the vaccines, it is easy to become complacent and forget how severe influenza can be.  Even though for many people, influenza can be a self-limited viral illness that gets better on its own, it can still be a serious and unpredictable illness.  It is very clear that children are at higher risk for more severe complications from either seasonal or 2009 H1N1 influenza, with a higher rate of hospitalization, secondary infection, and death compared to otherwise healthy adults.  At even greater risk are children with any serious underlying medical conditions, especially asthma or any neurologic condition.  Overall, we still feel strongly about the safety and importance of the influenza vaccines. 

We at Forest Lane Pediatrics wish you a happy holiday season and a healthy new year!