Flu isn't on break   ~  PEPS Dec. 30, 2009 – Even though the nation is celebrating the holidays, influenza viruses do not take a break, according to the CDC. Although cases are declining, it's still uncertain what will happen in January and February with the pandemic.

Dr. Anne Schuchat, CDC, held a press briefing on Dec. 22 to explain that distribution of vaccine is improving with 111 million doses made available so far, and while less virus is circulating, it's still all H1N1 virus. What will happen in the future with the virus and its seasonal relatives is still uncertain. The public should not become complacent.

During the press briefing, Dr. Schuchat summarized a survey that involved 1368 adults and 3243 children to determine rates of vaccination. Estimates from the week of December 6 to 12 showed that about 46 million people had been vaccinated with the H1N1 vaccine by that time. About 40 percent of the doses went to children, about twice the number of adults who were vaccinated. Dr. Schuchat reminded parents that children under the age of 10 who have received their first dose of vaccine need to receive the second follow up dose to make sure they are protected against the virus.

“The H1N1 vaccine supply is getting better and better. Surveys are showing that initial doses of vaccine were relatively quickly taken up and they were going to the people that they were targeted for,” Dr. Schuchat said according to a press transcript.

It is a good time to seek out the vaccine and get vaccinated as vaccine supplies increase and cases of disease decrease. In previous press briefings, Dr. Thomas Frieden, CDC director, spoke about a good “window of opportunity” now for people to get vaccinated. He was referring to the uncertain nature of the virus. The winter months could be mild in terms of both seasonal and H1N1 influenza disease or the nation could face a “third wave” of the H1N1 pandemic that is more serious than the first two waves. Citing historical precedent, the CDC has often referred to the 1957-58 pandemic in which cases declined in December only to return with a vengeance in the winter months, the traditional flu season.

Dr. Schuchat also spoke about reports that a dog caught H1N1 from its owner and issued guidance regarding pets. “In terms of people with pets, with cats and dogs, really this is not a reason to be concerned. We think that the rare occurrences of this virus in other species is not a general problem, so enjoying your pets and your family through the holidays is the best advice,” Dr. Schuchat said.

The CDC will provide its next update after the first of the year.