WASHINGTON, DC-- Kathleen Sebelius, Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, announced the H1N1 vaccine would likely be available for priority groups by October 5th and certainly no later than October 15th.
Priority vaccine recipients include:
- People age 25-64 with underlying medical conditions such as cognitive disabilities, cerebral palsy and other neuromuscular disorders, respiratory conditions, diabetes, and more.
- Paid and unpaid health care workers and direct support professionals and parents caring for individuals with underlying medical conditions.
Visit http://www.flu.gov/ for more information.
35 comments:
I think that the United States Department of Health prioritizing people with disabilities for the H1N1 vaccination is a great idea as they are more susceptible to catching it than the rest of the population. Also, this assists people with disabilities to feel better about the epidemic because they now know that there is a plan of action for those people with disabilities. Considering that people ages 25-64 with Diabetes, respiratory conditions, Cerebral Palsy and other neuromuscular disorders can easily get the Swine Flu.
I think this is also a positive movement for people with disabilities as they were included in the planning for prevention of further Swine Flu outbreaks. By including them in the plan other than secluding them this shows that people with disabilities are now being thought of as a general whole within the community and around the world.
Amy G.
First of all, it is relieving to know the vaccine is finally going to be administered. I think these precautions of administering to certain groups that can be more susceptible is a good and responsible step.
-Leivy S. Resendiz
I imagine that the news of the H1N1 vaccine becoming available is pleasing for everyone as it has been much anticipated. I must commend the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services for making the vaccine available for priority groups. In this case individuals with disabilities and their caregivers are given priority and this is seldom seen since this particular population has been neglected and forgotten in the past. Nevertheless, I believe that this can ultimately make a small but important dent in history (when PWD were rendered a service that could enhance and safe guard their quality of life). It is truly a moment of satisfaction to see the appropriate steps taken to safe guard individuals that are at higher risk. I want to add that I do not think that this constitutes for favoritism or special privileges because of a disability that is present instead the vaccine is a necessity. Gloria P.
Well like Leivy I also am relieve that the vaccine is going to be distributed. I also think that the goverment is doing good by putting people with disabilities in the priority list of the vaccine of H1N1. I think that people with disabilities should be in the priority list because that shows that they are placing importance on people with disabilities. Any person that is on the priority are more capable of getting the swine flu, and thats why I think this is a great idea!
Ana Ramirez
This is a step in the right direction. As we’ve all learned through the media in the past months, the H1N1, aka “swine flu,” really sent our society, as well as those of other nations’, into a frenzy. School districts shut down schools; some people even died. Needless to say, it was scary. And just again, people have begun getting sick. The flu and allergy season is back. Medical doctors’ offices are being bombarded with people who are freaking out because they are not sure if they have that “pig” sickness or if it is just a cold. Doctors have to settle them down and tell them not to worry, that they don’t even have a fever. It’s just a bad case of allergies and that’s why they are badly congested. My point is: People are freaking out. Because you know what? The H1N1 is still here; it might even mutate. Regardless, I’m glad there is a vaccine. And I’m glad that people with disabilities are being given priority. Sometimes they are more susceptible to getting sick because their immune systems can be weak. I’m just wondering why people who have disabilities under the age of 25 and over the age of 64 aren’t being given the same priority. I guess something is better than nothing.
Vanessa C. (6345)
It is definitely a good idea to prioritize people with disabilities in getting the H1N1 vaccination. First of all some people with disabilities my be more prone to getting the flu and the consequences of catching the H1N1 flu would be ten times worse. Without question I think the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services should be commended because not only will the individuals with disabilities be receiving priority vaccination but also the caretaker paid or non-paid. I think many of times the caretaker is overlooked. It will be ten times easier on the caretaker to take the vaccination when you are already there instead of having to come back later on which my not be convenient at all for the caretaker.
-Bibiana Medina
This is a good approach from the government towards individuals with disabilities and their caregivers.
I really appreciate the fact that they are including this group as a priority to get the H1N1 vaccine, because it is obvious that they are more susceptible to contact the virus than individuals with a stronger immune system.
Mary Carmen T.
I definably think that people with disabilities disserved to be vaccinated against the H1N1 first. I am glad the secretary of the US Department of Health and Human Services has priorities those with medical conditions, cerebral palsy and other neuromuscular disorders. People with disabilities are defiantly more susceptible to the Swine Flu in the sense that their visits to the doctor might be more frequent and contact with other people who might be infected is much more probable. I also like the idea of prioritizing paid and unpaid health care workers and direct support professionals by ensuring their heath we might as well be ensuring our own. Health professionals are the ones who provide the services and often the ones who have the most with the Flu.
In the end, I think every body should get the H1N1 vaccine once it becomes available to the general public. Is important that we take the necessary precautions to stop the epidemic.
Mariana GG
I am so happy that the United States Department of Health is finally becoming aware that people with disabilities are more prone to getting infected by the swine flu virus because they come in contact with many people such as doctors, nurses, health aids, and many of the facilities which are more frequently used by people with disabilities have come in contact with other people who may have come in contact with the virus or have been sick. This is a step forward for people with disabilities because it shows that people with disabilities are being considered and that their well being is a priority.
It is great to hear that individuals with disabilities are on the H1N1 vaccine priority list, these individuals should not be forgotten. Individuals with disabilities have low immune systems so it is important that they get immunized.
Ruby Q.
I recently got the flu vaccine, but not the H1N1 version and I have to say that it was an unpleasant situation. I did not get sick but I definitely had some flu symptoms the following day. The next day happened to be a trip to the Texas/Utep game in Austin. I felt a little dizziness, a lot of sweating and uncomfortable overall. I hope this new vaccine doesn’t have the same effects. In talking about priority I think that people in the medical profession should have priority over all, since they are the professionals dealing with the H1N1 influenza. Honestly, I think the people most at risk are people who come into many social interactions daily. I don’t think that people with physical disabilities have higher probabilities of acquiring the virus than anyone without a disability. People with medical conditions, on the other hand, might be more prone to infection. I have never really been in a case of severe influenza, so it’s kind of hard to associate or link this virus’s probability to a group. In all, I don’t see these priorities as extremely significant because the United States should eventually have enough vaccines for all; after-all, we are all equal, right?
I don't know too much about the actual H1N1 flu, but I do feel it is good news that the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services feel that people with certain disabilities should be on the priority list. From what I understand of the flu it can have some very harsh symptoms and sometimes for people with disabilities such as cerebral palsy, diabetes, or respiratory conditions these symptoms can develop more rapidly. I feel that giving them a chance at the vaccine first is just preventing them from getting seriously ill. For most of us our bodies are healthy enough to fight some of the symptoms, but for people with disabilities that affect their immune systems or those with respiratory problems these symptoms can make their conditions worse, it can mean life or death.
It's great to see that people with disabilities have not been forgotten. I'm sure it brings peace of mind to PWD as well as there loved ones who care for them. Great job United States Department of Health. One step forward in advocacy for PWD.
Marla
I think that is very important that people with disabilities is taking and consideration first for the H1N1 vaccine. I also think that is important to consider people with disabilities first since for them it might be herder to fight this disease than a person that does not have a disability. At first I was very scared about this issue, but know with this news I feel better.
Ivette Martinez
Great!! THe vaccine is finally out! It is so crucial that people with diabilities who have infections already need to be taken care of immediately. Especially since the H1N1 gets progressively worse when accompanies by another illness and can potentially lead to death. What makes it even better they dont have to pay the $24, they will be covered, and that is another worry shaken off.
GAbby Sanchez
It’s great to hear that the Department of Health is aware that people with disabilities do tend to become more prone to infections and other viruses. It’s very important for people to start worrying about flu season, especially people with disabilities and children. The H1N1vaccine should be considered very important and shouldn’t be taken lightly. Many people have died and gotten very sick. I believe the schools have done a good job in making sure the classrooms are clean and children can feel safe and healthy. The same precautions should be taken in hospitals, clinics, and very home.
Tanya D :o)
Even though it may seem unfair to some people within the various communities in the United States; in my opinion, it is understandable why there is a or will be a certain sector/population of individuals who will receive the H1N1 vaccination before others. Priority needs to be given to those citizens that are vulnerable to this virus due to various medical conditions and even old age. This is the best way the community as a whole can be protected against this world wide issue. However, it is also important to have these vaccinations available to the rest of the population in order to fight against this. It is important to have all the facts about this virus, the vaccinations, and any other information that can be beneficial to the coummnity available. The best way to avoid any casaulties is to keep the community informed.
A.Huerta
The H1N1 pandemic is not a laughing matter, or something to shrug our shoulders at. It poses a significant threat to virtually all people. Individuals with disabilities are highly susceptible to the H1N1 because many PWDs rely on others for some or all of their personal care. I believe that it is best to have individuals with disabilities and the elderly on the high priority list to receive H1N1 vaccinations in order to shield that population from the effects of the virus. Combined with another disability such as respiratory ailments, and cerebral palsy, where immune systems may already be compromised, the H1N1 virus will weaken an individual even more and have dire consequences. However, will the family members be ok with vaccinating against this rare and fatal viral strain? This is virtually an experimental vaccine and side effects are not necessarily known at this time. I would be very cautious about the H1N1 vaccine, but also about becoming infected with the virus, so I am in the air about what to think about the vaccine.
--Elizabeth C.P.
Another priority group includes women who are pregnant and nursing. I do believe it is a great idea to have priority with those who are more susceptible. However, I have heard of people who make a scandal because they are not allowed to get the shot any sooner. I know my mother works at a clinic and people go in all the time asking to take the shot. Once again, the group of people placed on the priority list are those who are most susceptible to the H1N1 virus. Supplying the shot for those who are more susceptible saves lives as well as prevents further medical traumas or care. Women who are pregnant are of the highest priority because child's development in the womb is most crucial. If the mother is not protected from these harms, the child could develop cognitive and physical disabilities.
Personally, I think it is a great idea to prioritize people with disabilities in getting the H1N1 vaccination. People with disabilities have a higher chance of getting the flu and the consequences of catching the H1N1 flu would be a lot worse for them. I get sick very easily. As soon as the weather changes I always get a cold or my allergies start acting up. Even though there are some consequences in getting the vaccine I still decided to get it. I got the flu vaccine and I got sick for a while but I know that it was nothing compared to what I would have gone through if I had not gotten the vaccination. This is way I think it best to be prepared and a good idea that the Health and Human Services decided to do this.
Crystal Sanchez
The H1N1 is all we have to say and everyone tosses in their comments - some factual, some myths, and some plain ignorant that think it's all hyped up by the government to control the population. I've tried to keep up with the most current issues regarding the H1N1 and I do find it scarey. As much as the nation hates when the media takes the bull by the horns and keeps drilling us on one issue, sometimes it is the best thing. The first time H1N1 was reported the country went into a frenzy and everyone was washing their hands, using hand sanitzers, some wearing masks and taking all sorts of precautions. What has happened now. You don't see all that happening anymore. People have actually let their guard down and we see that H1N1 is back, stronger than ever. I know that I'm not the only one that have the following in my family, and I hadn't thought about this til now, which is scary. I have a mother who is 89 and a grandson who is 13 months old. Well, 3 weeks ago, my grandson was feeling sick so my daughter took him to the doctor...he had type A flu. I immediately called my mother's doctor and she actually had to wait one week after to get the shot for the flu! I was a bit upset because here we are supposed to be taking priority with persons around these ages and yet, they are the ones that are getting infected and dying. I'm just glad that nothing happened to my mother and grandson, but others have not been as fortunate. I'm glad the government is providing the vaccine, but I'm not glad the way it is being distributed by the government or the doctors themselves. If my grandson wouldn't have shown signs, he or my mother would not have been vaccinated...which raises a red flag...send out flyers, texts, emails or something to your patients! Let your patients know that your office has or will have the vaccine on a certain date. Why wait until the persons are sick and infected!
NorfyG
This time the government made BINGO towards people with disabilities by placing them in the H1N1 Priority List. It make families be more at ease especially for their loved ones and for who are disabled. I believe that the H1N1 or the Swine Flu is a very scary thing especially when its a pandemic situation. That is why it is very good news that people with disabilities (ages 25 - 64) will be first to get the flu shot since they are the ones more accessible to contract the swine flue due to their health conditions and age.
Sylvia Garza
I am happy to hear that the government is taking this kind of actions. I believe that health benefits must be distributed based on people’s needs. It’s great to see that people with underlying medical conditions are served first. Bravo! I. Corbi
The U.S department of health and human services is doing a great job in developing a vaccine for this killer flu. I know I’m a bit dramatic, but the swine flu is not joke and we have seen many fatalities because of it. I think it is remarkable how they came up with a vaccine in such a short time, but it is for our own safety. I do not agree with having people on a priority list, aren’t we supposed to be “equal”? Although I understand that those who are vulnerable must get vaccinated first, but what about the rest of us who want to protect ourselves as well? Just because I am healthy according to the statistics I shouldn’t be a priority? I do not have health insurance, but I want to be healthy and safe as well. I am in no way saying that these people shouldn’t receive the vaccination, but I am saying that the U.S department of health and human services needs to be fair to everyone and give everyone a chance to be healthy, no one should have priority.
Elizabeth Gaona (REHS 6345)
How scary is this whole situation of the H1N1. It is good to know that our government takes action in how the distribution is orangized with the vaccines. So many of these individuals have a great susceptability to such sicknesses. There is only one problem, not enough test and studys have been conducted on this vaccin such as he long term side effects of the vaccin. Although I may understand the circumstances that we are in, it doesn't seem as we have enough time to wait.
These are very good categories of priority along with children being among the first on the list to get vaccinated. Many people with disabilities are taking other medications that make their immune system more susceptible to getting any kind of virus, especially the H1N1 infection.
I think that the U. S Department of Health is doing a great job at prioritizing groups of people with disabilities to get the vaccine, because people with these disabilities are more prone to catching the virus faster than other people. I am very glad that they are keeping in mind people with disabilities, this means that more people are taking notice and are advocating for PWD.
Blanca Perez
I agree with most of the other comments on here about how this is an example of how the population of individuals with disabilities is being included with other priorities. However, one thing i did notice is that there will be some individuals who will "fall in the cracks" and will not fit the categories of children, or in the age range 25-64, and also those individuals with disabilities over the age of 64. Just wondering what is going on with those individuals.
I think that this is a step that needs to be taken. Many times people with these disabilities have immune systems that are more susceptible to this virus. We have immune systems that are stronger and may not feel the symptoms of the flu like someone with a disability might. I think that the H1N1 has given everyone a scare and it is good to know that the government is taking the right steps to help prevent the spread of this virus.
Cassie Moya
I do not know that much about the
H1N1 vaccine or flu strain but an aware that there is a high level of contagiousness in it. I think that ir is a great idea for them to prioritize people with disabilities. There are many people with disabilites that can get sick in a quick way and their immune systems may not be able to handle the illness and severity of the medical need.
I think that prioritizing people who are susceptible to the H1N1 virus is a must to prevent the spread of illness to other groups. Children should also be included in the priority because they do not have their immunity levels working full force against any illnesses. Groups that are at high risk for respiratory infections should be the first to receive the injection, along with target groups and elderly persons. People should be considered for the injection based on their medical history and susceptibility to the virus and should also be educated on how to prevent the spread of disease if they are infected. The H1N1 vaccine is free in some Hidalgo County Health Departments valley wide, call ahead for availability and dates the vaccine is administered.
C. Cardona
I am glad to hear that Ms. Sebelius made such an announcement about prioritizing the H1N1 vaccination for people with disabilities and their caregivers. I think that ideally, this is what we want to hear in all areas of government assistance programs or initiatives.
I wonder how many people with disabilities actually actually got their vaccinations timely. Also, are there any statistics in regards to the number of PWDs who got actually got diagnosed with H1N1? It would be interesting to see some numbers.
--Leila Flores
well, i a m glad to hear that the goverment is concerned and doing something about this H1 N1 vaccine. I do have a problem with the principle of prioritizing for people with dissabilities. The fact that they are prioritizing for people with dissabilities is discriminating other individuals who do not have a dissability. I feel this makes people who do not have a dissability view this prioritizing of this vaccine to PWD as a mental conditioning to categorize in an area of Discrimination. I do like attempt to provide the vaccine , but i have a problem with the principle. I know some people may need it more than others, but i think it provokes a higher principle of discrimination and categorizing PWD as less instead of equal
Eddie. R
H1N1 the name has become feared all across America and was dubbed the next deadly virus, individuals were wearing masks and parents were keeping their kids from school. The fact that the vaccine is now available is causing problems because there’s not enough of it, people with disabilities or underlying medical conditions should be the first to receive these vaccines is important that we protect our society on the needs basis not on the basis of who can pay for the vaccine and putting them on the top of a list. In our society it has become acceptable to administer vaccines to the highest bidders and onto the ones most in need. Individuals incarcerated in jail have access to the H1N1 vaccine over some of the elderly and children who are most in need.
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