What age group has now been approved by Singapore health authorities for the H1N1 vaccine?
Health Minister Khaw Boon Wan said the first batch of 200,000 doses of H1N1 vaccines should be sufficient to meet initial demand. More than half, or 110,000 doses, have been taken up by general practitioners and clinics. According to the Health Sciences Authority (HSA), the vaccines are safe to use. Discussions with foreign counterparts indicate that the safety profile of the H1N1 vaccines are similar to those of the seasonal flu. The benefits of the H1N1 vaccines outweigh the possible side effects, according to HSA. It said this is especially so for certain groups, like those with chronic diseases such as asthma and diabetes, as well as pregnant women. But some recipients are likely to have side-effects from the H1N1 jab. One in 10 patients are expected to experience flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, fatigue and muscle aches. And one in five may experience nausea and vomiting. These side-effects are similar to those from the usual seasonal flu vaccine. Health officials in Singa
Previously, the vaccine was only approved for those above the age of 18. This comes a day after the death of a two-year-old boy who tested positive for H1N1. Authorities said on Thursday they have reviewed the safety of the CSL Limited Panvax H1N1 Vaccine and are satisfied that it can be used on children above the age of 10. For this group, they are recommended to receive a single dose of 0.5ml (15mcg) vaccine. This is similar to the current adult dose recommendation. The vaccine takes a couple of weeks to take effect. Authorities said while the vaccination is voluntary, it is important to note that the vaccine can help to protect people from being infected with the H1N1 influenza virus. They are strongly recommending the vaccine to those in the younger age bracket, especially those who have pre-existing chronic conditions such as asthma and other chronic lung diseases, heart diseases, epilepsy, kidney diseases, blood disorders or diabetes. Another reason for the strong recommendation
SINGAPORE: Singapore health authorities have approved the use of the H1N1 vaccine for youths aged 10 to 18. Previously, the vaccine was only approved for those above the age of 18. This comes a day after the death of a two-year-old boy who tested positive for H1N1. Authorities said on Thursday they have reviewed the safety of the CSL Limited Panvax H1N1 Vaccine and are satisfied that it can be used on children above the age of 10. For this group, they are recommended to receive a single dose of 0.5ml (15mcg) vaccine. This is similar to the current adult dose recommendation. The vaccine takes a couple of weeks to take effect. They are strongly recommending the vaccine to those in the younger age bracket, especially those who have pre-existing chronic conditions such as asthma and other chronic lung diseases, heart diseases, epilepsy, kidney diseases, blood disorders or diabetes. Sources: channelnewsasia.
