Adults, kids sought for H1N1 vaccine trials at IWK
Reported September 15, 2009
The IWK Health Centre in Halifax is seeking healthy adults and children for H1N1 vaccine trials.
The IWK is one of several hospitals across Canada where the vaccine will be tested, likely in late September.
The trials will be part of the process in getting the vaccine approved, an IWK spokesman said Monday.
“Theyll be trying different doses of the vaccine that theyre working on right now to see how people react to it,” Nick Cox said.
“Its very similar to what they do for the seasonal flu (vaccine).”
The participants must be 19 to 40 and must have never had a flu shot. The study will also involve children aged six months to nine.
Those interested in participating can call 470-8931.
Its expected that a flu vaccine wont be ready for distribution in early November.
Immunization programs could begin as early as this month in Europe and by mid-October in the United States.
Canadas chief public health officer, Dr. David Butler-Jones, has said vaccinations could begin sooner if the virus surges before the flu shots are ready and health officials are convinced the vaccine is safe.
The government will release guidelines this week for those who should get the H1N1 vaccine first, The Canadian Press reported Monday.
Ottawas guidelines could mirror a U.S. government panels recommendations that pregnant women, health care workers and children and young adults should be vaccinated ahead of others.
Source : TheChronicleHerald