Priority group expanded for H1N1 vaccine

Health and Community Services Minister Jerome Kennedy has announced the priority group to receive the H1N1 vaccine will now be further expanded.

It follows the arrival of the province's next shipment of vaccine this week.

Mr. Kennedy emphasized the department will continue with its balanced approach to vaccinating the population, which includes a number of high risk groups and our school age children.

"Our statistics regarding hospital admissions demonstrate that individuals with chronic respiratory conditions continue to be at highest risk for severe disease, so we have expanded the group to include all individuals with such conditions under the age of 65. We also continue to be committed to vaccinating school age children and will begin vaccinations for children in Grades 4-6 next week."

Beginning Thursday, the priority group for H1N1 vaccination will expand to include individuals less than 65 years of age with chronic respiratory conditions such as asthma, chronic bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and cystic fibrosis.

Individuals will require proof of active treatment of the disease (for example prescription, labelled medication, insurance forms).

In addition, individuals under 65 years of age with compromised respiratory function due to a physical, neurological or muscular disorder (for example ALS, multiple sclerosis, quadriplegia, paraplegia, spina bifida) will be eligible for vaccination at this time.

As many of these individuals are known to regional continuing care programs, individuals will be contacted by staff to arrange for vaccination. Individuals who are not connected to a continuing care program can contact their regional health authority for further information - Eastern Health 1-877-752-4358.

Beginning Monday, Nov. 16, more elementary school aged children will also begin receiving the H1N1 vaccinations. The vaccine will be delivered in the schools where possible.