This year there are two different flu immunizations recommended for individuals, including individuals over the age of 65. And once again this season has arrived, and there are delays in the shipment of the injectable and FluMist vaccines; but it is anticipated that adequate supplies will be available. Most individuals are familiar with the annual influenza vaccine and already know where they will go to receive their annual influenza immunization. Some individuals participate in clinics held in the community, while others obtain an annual influenza immunization from their primary care physician.

In addition to the annual influenza virus, there are increased warnings and concerns about the swine flu, i.e., the H1N1 virus. The next wave of the swine flu has already begun, with some colleges and schools already reporting high numbers of cases. While the U.S. government has spent $1.15 billion to purchase enough vaccine to immunize the entire U.S. population against this new virus strain, the new vaccine does not yet appear to be ready for use for immunization of the general population. Novartis, Sanofi Pasteur, Commonwealth Serum Laboratories [CSL], MedImmune, and GlaxoSmithKline are the five major providers for the H1N1 vaccine for the US. However, these providers have indicated that it will not be until later this fall that a vaccine can be ready. In addition, the testing and safety aspects of the vaccine are still under scrutiny and study, and concern is being voiced about having the vaccine in time to prevent a pandemic. Vaccination programs had been planned for October and November. However, because of the anticipated shortage of the vaccine, a priority list for administration is being developed.

One clinical trial, CSL H1N1 Influenza Vaccine Administered at Two Dose Levels in Adult and Elderly Populations, that is underway is focused on assessing the safety and immune response (body's defense against disease). Up to 450 adults from ages 18 - over 65 years are participating in the study, which is estimated to run for about seven months. There is also indecision within the industry relative to whether there should be one or two inoculations against the swine flu. It will also be later in November when the first clinical studies of pandemic swine flu vaccine are complete. Once the results of these studies are available and released, there could be adjustments made to the established vaccination program. For more information on the clinical trials, please go to: www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT00943488.

In the interim, one preventative initiative is the "Senior Swine Flu Prevention Package." This initiative urges children to gather basic supplies into a package and send it to their parents. The supplies are those that would provide basic prevention and care elements needed for the swine flu. Peter Ross, CEO of Senior Helpers, also urges vigilance and prevention as part of this initiative. Suggested contents for the Senior Swine Flu Prevention Package include tips for prevention and spread, latex gloves, vitamins, hand sanitizer, tissues and baby wipes. Other suggested items also include disposable masks, counter top wipes, paper towels and sealable bags for disposing of soiled items. For more information about the Senior Swine Flu Prevention initiative, please go to http://www.seniorhelpers.com/.

For additional information on influenza and swine flu prevention in general, please go to http://www.Flu.gov.