Flu Shot Concerns for This Fall Begin

According to a story in the AM News, some physicians and other health care professionals have concerns about the supply of flu vaccine for this Fall.  They also worry that individuals who decided to forego the vaccine this past year, may not return to get a shot this year.  The article states,

According to several presentations at the annual National Influenza Vaccine Summit convened in May by the American Medical Association and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Chicago, physicians, public health officials and influenza vaccine supply experts are concerned that, after such a significant supply disruption, those who took a pass will now be lost for good.

There are multiple reasons why. These patients might not have become ill, leading them to believe they don't really need a flu shot after all. Or last season's message that flu shots be reserved for those most in need could stick beyond its relevance.

"[People] may think 'I stepped aside and didn't die. Do I really need this vaccine?' " said Steve Cochi, MD, MPH, acting director of the CDC's National Immunization Program. "Last year was confusing."

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