2009 H1N1 INFLUENZAVACCINE FACTS
INACTIVATED the "flu shoot"
2009 H1N1 infl uenza (also called Swine Flu) is caused by a new strain of infl uenza virus. It has spread to many countries. Like other fl u viruses, 2009 H1N1 spreads from person to person through coughing, sneezing, and sometimes through touching objects contaminated with the virus.
Signs of 2009 H1N1 can include:
• Fatigue
• Fever
• Sore Throat
• Muscle Aches
• Chills
• Coughing
• Sneezing
Some people also have diarrhea and vomiting. Most people feel better within a week. But some people
get pneumonia or other serious illnesses. Some people have to be hospitalized and some die.
Vaccines are available to protect against 2009 H1N1 influenza. These vaccines are made just like seasonal flu vaccines. They are expected to be as safe and effective as seasonal flu vaccines. They will not prevent “influenza-like” illnesses caused by other viruses. They will not prevent seasonal flu. You should also get seasonal influenza vaccine, if you want to be protected against seasonal flu.
Inactivated vaccine (vaccine that has killed virus in it) is injected into the muscle, like the annual flu shot. This sheet describes the inactivated vaccine. A live, intranasal vaccine (the nasal spray vaccine) is also available. It is described in a separate sheet. Some inactivated 2009 H1N1 vaccine contains a preservative called thimerosal to keep it free from germs. Some people have suggested that thimerosal might be related to autism. In 2004 a group of experts at the Institute of Medicine
reviewed many studies looking into this theory, and found no association between thimerosal and autism. Additional studies since then reached the same conclusion.
For more information read the 2009 H1N1 Influenza Innactivated Vaccine Sheet .
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