ACIP recommends universal flu vaccine

The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices is urging everyone to get their influenza vaccine, and placing emphasis on the often-neglected population of adults aged 19 to 49 years.

The recommendation, which was made during the committee’s meeting this week, came amid expectations of continued circulation of pandemic influenza A (H1N1).

Committee members said 50% of adults aged 19 to 49 years already have an indication for annual vaccination, but vaccinating the entire population would likely simplify the complicated current recommendations that create confusion about who should be vaccinated.

Anthony Fiore, MD, of the CDC and National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, said pregnant women, parents and those who often have extended contact with young children, adults older than 65 years or with chronic medical conditions are already recommended to receive the vaccine, but many do not get vaccinated.

Discussion during the meeting focused on whether immediate implementation of universal vaccination for adults or a phased-in approach would offer the best option for patients, health care providers and vaccine manufacturers.

Those who favored the phased-in approach cited examples from pediatricians who appreciated the time to prepare when vaccination was recommended for all children. Supporters of immediate implementation said extended coverage should be expedited in light of pandemic H1N1’s circulation. After an FDA advisory panel meeting on Monday, the committee carried a motion to approve immediate implementation of the 2010-2011 seasonal flu vaccine, which will include the H1N1 strain.

Some members of the committee said they were concerned about sufficient vaccine supply. Although manufacturers had difficulty producing enough vaccines in previous years, David Greenberg, MD, of Sanofi-Pasteur, said the supply will meet the demand.

Additionally, Greenberg and committee members said many vaccine doses went unused in the past year, adding that targeting the adult population may increase demand and prevent wasted vaccines doses. – by Melissa Foster

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