Most health experts are encouraging everyone to get the H1N1 flu vaccine. Many San Diegans are ready for the shot, but the problem is there's no shot ready for them.
Ed Jones is getting a seasonal flu shot today.
"I want to stay healthy for the year, make sure I don't pass any viruses to my kids," he said.
He wants to get the H1N1 vaccine today too, but that's not going to happen. Sharp Rees-Stealy, like other health providers around the county, is still waiting for it's shipment of H1N1 shots to arrive. It's frustrating for patients, and frustrating for doctors.
"There's a big demand for it, 'I've heard about it, what can I do?' Right now, they key is not to spread it if you get sick. Wash your hands," Dr. John Hippen said.
A very limited amount of the H1N1 nasal mist vaccine made its way into the county last week, but it's mostly going to children. Some family practices made doses available to adults, but many have already gone through their supply. So you should check with your doctor to see if they have any left... As for who should get the vaccine?
"Children, under 25, we're recommending H1N1. Asthma, diabetes, kidney disease should get H1N1 vaccine. The other age group, it's optional," Dr. Hippen said.
Local pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens, which are offering season flu shots right now, have not been cleared by the state yet to also give the H1N1 vaccine, so they don't have it either.
While waiting for the H1N1 shot, you might want to consider getting the pneumonia vaccine. It won't prevent you from getting swine flu, but could help if you develop other infections while fighting it.
As for Ed, he'll be back for the swine flu shot as soon as it's available, even though it means a second trip to the doctor.
"It's OK, gets me out of work for a while," he said.
