Health Center - Services and Clinics - The College at Brockport

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H1N1 VACCINE INFORMATION

H1N1 Flu Shot Clinics

Why get vaccinated?

Vaccine is the best method of preventing flu. Plain and simple. Handwashing and avoiding close contact with sick people are important, but vaccine is best.

SOME COMMON MYTHS, and unfounded rumors

Myth #1: SWINE FLU VACCINE IS UNSAFE The H1N1 virus revealed itself too late for it to be included in this year’s seasonal flu vaccine. This same technology has been used to make influenza vaccines for 60 years, with an excellent safety record. The injectable vaccine is made by growing flu virus in eggs, purifying it and then treating it with a chemical that inactivates the virus. The nasal spray vaccine (FluMist) is made using a tiny amount of live virus that produces immunity through the nasal membranes. This technology has been used safely for more than 30 years.

Myth #2: THE VACCINE IS UNTESTED The H1N1 vaccine has already been given to thousands of volunteers to determine whether it could protect them from the virus and to make sure that it caused no adverse reactions. Only then did the Food and Drug Administration license it. Because it is so similar to seasonal flu vaccine, the concerns are minimal.

Myth #3. THE VACCINE HAS A DANGEROUS PRESERVATIVE Thimerosal is a very effective preservative that has been used since the 1930s to prevent contamination in some multi-dose vials of vaccines. There is no convincing evidence of harm caused by the low doses of thimerosal in vaccines, except for minor reactions like redness and swelling at the injection site. It is safe for children and pregnant women to receive a flu vaccine that contains thimerosal.

We strongly encourage you to be vaccinated! Protect yourself and those around you!

Questions can be directed to the Student Health Center: healthce@brockport.edu