Released on October 30, 2009
Saskatchewan's H1N1 immunization roll-out will continue as planned next week, but future plans are being re-evaluated in light of news that all provinces will receive significantly fewer doses than expected of H1N1 vaccine.
"While this is disappointing and frustrating news, we do have enough vaccine to immunize young children and pregnant and post-partum women as planned next week," Chief Medical Health Officer Dr. Moira McKinnon said. "We will continue to open up vaccine clinics to other high-risk groups based on available vaccine and the most current information we have about H1N1's tendencies and patterns."
Due to the manufacturer's difficulties in producing enough vaccine to meet demand, Saskatchewan will be receiving 13,000 doses in its next shipment, rather than the 60,000 expected. As a result, the province's supply will need to be carefully managed until more vaccines arrive.
Other provinces are now moving away from open clinics and are instead having to re-evaluate how to target those higher risk groups like Saskatchewan's roll-out plan.
As H1N1's second wave continues throughout the province, Saskatchewan's toll-free health information line is hiring additional registered nurses and opening more phone lines to field inquiries about the virus and vaccination program.
HealthLine, which is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 1-877-800-0002, provides guidance on such topics as how to address flu symptoms, when to call their physician or visit an emergency room, and the locations and times for local H1N1 vaccination clinics.
To date, most people in Saskatchewan who have contracted H1N1 have experienced only mild illness.
Healthy individuals experiencing milder symptoms such as cough, fever, or muscle aches, are advised to rest and care for themselves at home.
For individuals experiencing more severe illness, antiviral medications are available to ease symptoms.
"We're suggesting that people with underlying medical conditions who are experiencing flu-like symptoms should call their doctors right away," McKinnon said. "At the physician's discretion, the patient can be prescribed medication to address the symptoms."
In the meantime, all Saskatchewan residents are urged to continue with infection prevention measures such as frequent washing of hands and staying home if unwell.
Up-to-date vaccine clinic information will continue to be posted at www.health.gov.sk.ca.
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For more information, contact:
Karen Hill
Health
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4083