Nationwide flu vaccine shortage? Have you heard anything about this?

[Horse with no Name]

I just called the pediatrician's office to make an appointment for my granddaughter.
They have one of those systems that reads stuff to you while you are on hold.
They said that "since there is a flu vaccine shortage this year"...
Wtf? I hadn't heard anything like that in the MSM?
I would think that would be important to know.

[petepillow]

1. Isn't this the same thing every year?

Always a shortage, only get it if absolutely neccessary, etc. * will go on TV and make a big announcement that only the most at risk should get the shot...

[Horse with no Name]

2. No.

Usually (including last year--up to the point that there was a shortage) they encourage everyone to get one.

[Dunvegan]

3. I think this is part of the new...

...Bush/Oceania Government Permanant Shortage Under-fulfillment Ninth Three-Year Plan.

Please refer to the voice from the telescreen for further instructions.

[Bridget Burke]

4. The CDC is "optimistic"

"Because of the uncertainties regarding production of influenza vaccine, the exact number of available doses and timing of vaccine distribution for the 2005-06 influenza season remain unknown," CDC officials said in a report earlier this month.

As a result, the CDC is recommending that only priority groups receive vaccinations before Oct. 24.

After that date, supplies should be plentiful enough to allow everyone who wants them to get flu shots, CDC officials said.

http://news.cincypost.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20051001/NEWS01/510010353

This is a new policy. Why are there "uncertainties"--after last year? Supplies "should" be ready?

[AspenRose]

5. News to me

My infant just got his (mercury free) shot Friday.

[CornField]

6. Yes -- pediatrician called me to schedule

My 5-yr-old has horrible asthma that is triggered by illness. She's one of those people in the high-risk category. Her pediatrician phoned me last week to schedule Sam's flu shot. "We aren't going to have many this year and I know that she's one the kids who would be in danger without it."

Hubby is Type 1 diabetic... his doctor emailed him with the same information.

[area51]

7. flu vaccine shortage

Curious how this keeps happening during the ** mis-administration....