Swine Flu Vaccine

Editorial Team / Admin · Jul 30, 2009

Moved to Pandemic Flu forum.

indigo girl · Jul 30, 2009

Hi all! I was reading what the CDC was recommending as the first wave of those to receive the H1N1 vaccine this Fall....I know healthcare workers are on the list but what about us students doing clinicals in the hospitals? I am just starting in August and was wondering what anyone thinks or has heard about students being in the first wave as well. Thanks!

That's a good question. You should ask your instructors.

If you are doing clinicals in hospital, I would think as student nurses, you would have to be vaccinated as you won't be much use to anyone if you are sick...

We might need you.

lamazeteacher · Jul 30, 2009

Think fire drill on board ships.

Women with children inside them first! Then the people with preexisting conditions, then health care workers and those from 20-40 years of age (which puts most HCWs in that group). Babies will probably get it at their first few checks and later. Clinics usually get vaccines quicker than private doctors, and should keep waiting areas less crowded, by keeping several areas available for those waiting (easier said than done, I know, but be innovative!)......

Actually, you can minimize your risk by avoiding airplane travel (hours in crowded, recycled air (from intside the airplane), crowded restaurants, malls, theatres (go see the show in the morning, unless they serve "flapjacks" there, making the place crowded), indoor parties. Get out in the fresh air and enjoy summer.

Kids aren't in crowded classrooms, so that's a plus, except that they could be in crowded day care situations...... (rethink that, if your kid(s) are there; and your classrooms if in session, might consider leaving an empty space between students, some N95 masks in several sizes (for those coughing), and windows and doors open........

It would be a good idea to teach how to properly fit those masks, now.