Lots of good info on the government site which is germane to the back and forth going on here.
First, in general we should understand sequencing, especially those who are planning on camping out for the shot like it's a new gadget:
Quote:
While there will be enough H1N1 flu virus vaccine for all Canadians who need and want protection, not everyone can be immunized at the same time. Vaccine sequencing refers to the Government of Canada advice to provinces and territories on which groups and populations will benefit most from vaccination so that the timing and location of immunization clinics can be targeted appropriately.
Q2. What are the GoC recommendations on who should get the vaccine first?
Keeping in mind that we have ordered enough vaccine for every Canadian that needs and wants to be immunized, our basic approach is to ensure those that need it most get it first.
Those who will benefit most from immunization and those who care for them include:
- People under 65 with chronic health conditions
- Pregnant women
- Children 6 months to less than 5 years of age
- People living in remote and isolated settings or communities
- Health care workers involved in pandemic response or the delivery of essential health care services
- Household contacts and care providers of persons at high risk who cannot be immunized or may not respond to vaccines
- Populations otherwise identified as high risk
Others who would benefit from immunization include:
- Children 5 to 18 years of age
- First responders
- Poultry and swine workers
- Adults 19 to 64 years of age
- Adults 65 and older
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To me the above says if you're a healthy adult, steer clear of the clinics for a few days so those who really need it, get it.
And the debate on who it affects more:
Quote:
Adults 19 to 64 years of age: As compared to adults over 65, this group has an increased rate of infection and a higher risk of severe outcomes.
Adults 65 and older: Immunization is one of the most effective ways to protect all members of our communities. Although healthy adults 65 and older are less likely to contract the virus, by encouraging all age groups to be immunized, we can reduce the chance of exposing vulnerable populations to the virus.
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