Influenza Update

The ACIP update on the 2007-2008 influenza was reported that the season was more severe that had been observed than the 2003-2004 season. The report disclosed that was a relatively poor match between the vaccine and the circulating flu virus strains. However the vaccine was still 44% effective. There will be an expansion of children recommended for the influenza vaccination for the 2008-2009 season. Children 6 months of age to 5 years of age are already being recommended for vaccination. The six influenza manufacturers project about 150 million doses of vaccine will be available for the upcoming season.