Surplus of Seasonal Flu Vaccine

Thousands of people die from the seasonal flu each year. The peak of flu season is months away from January to March. But as NBC 6 News Reporter Jenna Zibton found out hospitals are already gearing up. Doctors expect more people to get stuck this year with the flu vaccine but some say theres a common misconception. You cannot prevent the seasonal flu and the H1N1 virus with just one shot. "Most people are going to be expecting that the flu shot is the flu shot that its going to cover everything thats out there, and it doesnt. And there may be surprises" says Christus Schumpert Pulmonologist Dr. Loyd Whitley. Since the H1N1 vaccine wont be availiable until next month questions still remain like how the seasonal flu vaccine will interact with the swine flu vaccine. "Theyre still not sure is it going to be one, two or three shots depending upon your age and what other exsisting health conditions that the individual might have" he says. There are many unknowns but doctors tell NBC 6 before you get vaccinated talk to your doctor about complications. Pharmacists tell us they can order more seasonal vaccines. That is something that hasnt been done in the past according to Dr. Whitley "Very unusual. This is the first time in my knowledge that weve been actally able to increase your order of vaccine if you want." Christus Schumpert is not giving out flu shots until next month. Doctors say the best way to prevent the virus is by getting a flu shot, using good personal hygine and staying home if youre sick.