I tried to get a flu shot today

[many a good man]

My health care provider, an HMO, said they had to screen me first. Over the phone. I wasn't in one of the at risk groups so they said couldn't give me the shot for Swine Flu.

So then I asked about the regular flu. They said they were all out of the adult doses, so I would have to get TWO shots of the children's dose!

Looks like I won't get any flu shots this year. I wonder how much money they saved. Hope I don't get the flu.

[stray cat]

1. There is a shortage and they will lose money because by the time vaccines are in

no one will want them because of the delay and they will have to throw them out. No conspiracy here.

[Callalily]

2. I am baffled. Each and every

year there are shortages, and this year in particular. I just can't understand why they don't ramp up production at the beginning.

Sorry that you won't be able to get a flu shot this year.

Stay healthy!

[TZ]

3. Because the technology to grow the flu viruses is outdated and slow

AND because despite what DU people think making flu vaccines isn't the most profitable area for biopharmaceuticals so there are limited companies to do this.
There will be enough vaccine for everyone EVENTUALLY. Unfortunately the process cannot be rushed. H1N1 apparantly grows slower than the seasonal influenza virus.

[Pool Hall Ace]

5. And you are in the business, aren't you TZ?

So you know what you are talking about.

My doctor recommended the regular flu vaccine for me, but thought I could get by without the H1N1. I am going continue to be mindful of washing my hands, keeping surfaces clean, etc.

[TZ]

6. Yes.

In fact my company produces the H1N1 nasal spray vaccine. So I am quite aware of the difficulties of production...
I would get H1N1 if you get a chance, I had mine with absolutely no issues...Just be sure to wait 21-30 days between shots as recommended by the CDC.

[NJmaverick]

4. They were not lying to you

The swine flu shots are going to go to the risk groups before being opened up to the general public.

There is a pretty severe shortage of seasonal flu. The early deliveries were fine but for the past few weeks almost nothing has been arriving.

Check back with them in a week or two, they might get some seasonal in. By the end of Nov they may even open up the H1N1 vaccine to rest of the population.