US lacks back-up for flu vaccine shortfall

Rationing the flu vaccine.

In October 2004, the CDC announced that Chiron Corporation, chief supplier of inactivated influenza vaccine for the United States for the 2004–2005 flu season, would not be providing the 50 million vaccinations it had promised—half of the anticipated 90–100 million doses from all sources projected for the flu season. The resultant shortage set off a firestorm of concern. Well known to health ca...

The quest for a H1N1 flu vaccine.

Strategy for approving a universal flu vaccine

Catching Up with Flu

The sniffles, sneezes, aches, and pains of flu are a dreaded part of the winter season. The fear of another deadly pandemic is ever imminent, and this issue’s Select looks at recent efforts to understand this ever-shifting virus. From efforts aiming to predict its geographical spread to those that elucidate the basic viral biology and host response, researchers are looking for new ways to stay ...

Swine flu (H1N1) vaccine, 1976 and now

No one really looks forward to getting a shot, but for the vast majority of people, vaccines are very safe. Some people experience mild side effects like soreness after receiving a vaccine, and rarely people report more serious problems. In your case, the best course of action is to tell your health provider about your previous symptoms, and then follow the provider's advice for future vaccinat...