H1N1 vaccine shortages are creating anxiety, frustration and concern for many Americans.
Two days after President Obama declared the H1N1 flu a national emergency, facilities around the country saw long lines and not enough doses to treat everyone. The government originally predicted 40 million doses of the vaccine would be available by the end of October, but now acknowledges that number will only be about 28 million.
Forty-six states are reporting H1N1 as widespread, with more than 1,000 deaths and 20,000 hospitalizations. About 150 million doses will be needed to cover all Americans.For those who want information about the H1N1 vaccine in your area, check out these resources as your jumping off point: Find a Flu Shot Near You: Flu.gov’s shot locator provides information on vaccine availability state by state, hot line numbers, and links for FAQs by area. Also, check out their interactive health map with links to state resources, H1H1 flu news from state officials and the latest updates from the CDC from your area. Questions about the swine flu vaccine? Click here to visit the CDC’s fact sheet on the vaccine, who should be vaccinated and more. CLICK HERE to ask Dr. Richard Besser, ABC News’ senior health and medical editor and former top officer for the CDC your swine flu questions.