The 2010 Seasonal Influenza Vaccine

The 2010 seasonal flu vaccine is now available. It includes the H1N1 (pandemic or swine flu) virus strain. This virus is again expected to be the predominant circulating influenza in the Australian community this year and for the next few years. Last year H1N1 attacked younger people and caused more hospital and intensive care admissions than usual

UPDATE: As of 23/4/10, vaccination of the under fives with seasonal 2010 flu vaccine has been suspended due to increased adverse event rates, mostly fever related. The H1N1 vaccine can still be used in that group as it was generally well tolerated.

There is little natural (immunity acquired from the wild virus) or vaccine immunity in the community and this allows a new strain of virus easy entry. This year's vaccine also includes influenza B and an updated strain of influenza A, H3N2. Vaccination is still recommended if the individual has already had the free Panvax (swine flu only) vaccine.

The criteria for receiving the 2010 seasonal flu vaccine under the government program has been expanded to those over 6 months old with the following conditions. These people are more at risk of complications from influenza.

• Chronic heart disease (some congenital heart conditions, coronary artery disease or heart failure)
• Chronic lung disease (chronic obstructive lung disease, emphysaema, severe asthma)
• Diabetes or kidney disorders
• Impaired immunity (HIV, cancer, on immunosuppressant drugs)
• Neurological conditions (Multiple Sclerosis, spinal cord injuries and seizure disorders)
• Pregnant women

The Department of Health will be providing the annual influenza vaccine FREE for all people with the conditions listed above as well as those 65 and over and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders aged 15 and over. Panvax remains available free for anyone.