December 16, 2009

Some H1N1 vaccine recalled by CDC

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced a non-safety related voluntary recall of certain lots of H1N1 influenza vaccine for children. Although the H1N1 vaccines delivered by Kossuth Regional Health Center or Community Health are not part of this recall, some areas of Iowa did receive doses of the affected vaccine.

Four lots were recalled after the manufacturer, Sanofi Pasteur, found during testing that the strength of the vaccine was below pre-determined levels. According to the Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH), Iowa was allocated approximately 28,600 doses of the affected vaccine in approximately 45 counties. Two of the four affected lot numbers were received in Iowa.

“KRHC did not receive any doses from the affected lot that was recalled by the CDC, so this does not affect people who were vaccinated through Kossuth Regional Health Center or Community Health,” said Dixie Meyer of KRHC Community Health.

“This vaccine is completely safe,” said IDPH Immunization and Tuberculosis Bureau Chief Don Callaghan. “While the manufacturer has determined the strength of the vaccine is slightly below specifications, the FDA and CDC has determined there is no significant reduction in the immune response in those who received this vaccine. For that reason, there is no need to re-vaccinate anyone who received one or both doses of the affected vaccine.”

The Iowa Department of Public Health has announced that H1N1 vaccinations have been opened to all Iowans.  The next two local vaccine clinics will feature both the H1N1 vaccine and the seasonal flu vaccine, with upcoming clinics to be held on Thursday, December 17 from 4 to 6 p.m. in the KRHC Clinic Lobby and next Tuesday, December 22 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at First Lutheran Church in Algona.

For more information call the KRHC Flu Hotline at 515-295-4451 or toll free at 800-603-8433, ext. 698.