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Will there be a shortage of swine flu vaccine for the H1N1 virus? According to a report from the Chicago Tribune, there are questions about the vaccine production and if there will be enough when the flu season really begins in earnest and spreads throughout the US. The Washington Post credits the Bush Administration's preparations for the bird flu four years ago and notes in a report that the foundation for the government to ready mass vaccination and distribute the vaccine is in place and ready.

Swine Flu Vaccine (Update) - H1N1 Flu Shot Shortage? (Image: WENN)

So what is the hold up? According to the Post, the trouble with the process is in the lab where scientists are not getting quick enough results. The stress is safety - the vaccine has to be effective but it also has to be safe. Some don't trust the flu shot. How quickly is it spreading?


Flu.Gov notes, "In the United States, significant novel H1N1 illness has continued into the summer, with localized and in some cases intense outbreaks occurring. The United States continues to report the largest number of novel H1N1 cases of any country worldwide, however, most people who have become ill have recovered without requiring medical treatment."

With children in school and kids now off to college the fear is that may spread the disease at a more rapid pace. Fore more updates, WaPo has an editorial here that asks, The Swine Flu Vaccine - Should you get it when the time comes? The Tribune has more information here of the possible shortage.