The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 47 million Americans
came down with H1N1 influenza between April and mid-November 2009. This virus caused more than 200,000 hospitalizations and is responsible for about 10,000 deaths. Children and young adults were hit hardest and represent the majority of deaths from H1N1. Experts continue to be concerned that the H1N1 influenza virus may peak again in the future. With H1N1 vaccine available across the country, public health officials are stressing the need for continued vaccinations.The Campaign for Public Health Foundation, in partnership with the Congressional Study Group on Public Health, the Department of Health and Human Services, the CDC and others, will hold an important media event on Capitol Hill. Its goal is to spread awareness of the vaccine’s availability and stress the ongoing importance of getting vaccinated. This event will encourage continued vaccinations of children and young adults aged 6 months to 24 years, pregnant women and caregivers of infants less than 6 months old.
In a 2008 public opinion poll (PDF), 49% of Americans saw the most value in preventing disease. Thanks to prevention and vaccine research conducted at the CDC and HHS, the H1N1 flu vaccine can control its spread among Americans.
Further details on the event are available here (PDF).
Tags: Campaign for Public, H1N1