CDC: Flu vaccine delayed, priority to at-risk patients

Influenza vaccine delivery is expected to be delayed again this year, though the outlook is not as bad as in 2000. Projected total distribution of influenza vaccine for 2001 is 83.7 million doses, which would exceed actual distribution in 1999 and 2000, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The projection is based on aggregate manufacturers’ estimates. By the end of October 2001, 53.5 million doses (64%) will be available, which is twice the amount, 26.6 million doses, available at the same time last year. However, this is less than the 75.8 million doses (99% of the total) available by the end of October 1999, when there was no delay. In November and December of 2001, another 30.2 million doses (36%) of the total 83.7 million projected for 2001 will be available. Officials stress that these early projections from manufacturers could change.

Influenza vaccination typically peaks in October or early November, however, influenza disease peaks between December and March. In 15 of the last 19 years, peak activity occurred between January and March, indicating vaccination throughout November and in December and even later is effective in most influenza seasons.

The CDC recommends prioritizing vaccine available early in the flu season to those at highest risk of complications from influenza illness. Those include people 65 years of age or older and those under 65 years of age with chronic illness, including heart and lung diseases and diabetes.

The CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immuniza-tion Practices made the following recommendations regarding flu vaccination strategies for health care providers, the public, manufacturers and health departments for the upcoming flu season:

For providers:

• target vaccine available in September and October to those at high risk and health care workers;

• continue vaccination through December and as long as vaccine is available.

For the public:

• if at high risk, seek vaccine in September or October, or as soon as it is available and throughout the season;

• if not at high risk, seek vaccine in November or later.

For manufacturers, distributors, and vendors:

• delay distribution of vaccine to work sites until November;

• distribute some vaccine available early to all providers who have placed orders;

• inform providers when to expect vaccine deliveries and the quantity being delivered.

For health departments and other organizations that provide vaccine:

• develop contingency plans responding to a delay in vaccine distribution;

• those planning mass immunization campaigns outside the workplace should plan to start them in late October or November.

(Editor’s note: Look for influenza vaccine supply updates at: www.cdc.gov/nip/flu.)