As you are aware, the nation is taking extraordinary steps to ensure that it is prepared to address the influenza A (H1N1) pandemic. This effort requires the close cooperation of government agencies, health-care providers, vaccine manufacturers, and many others involved in public health efforts within the US.  Sanofi Pasteur has taken on the very important role of manufacturing an influenza A (H1N1) pandemic vaccine for the US government, as well as 50.5 million doses of Fluzone®, Influenza Virus Vaccine to protect against seasonal influenza.  
 

Despite the unprecedented challenge of producing two influenza vaccines in one year, sanofi pasteur is on track to meet both the government’s target of making the Influenza A (H1N1) 2009 Monovalent Vaccine available beginning in October and to deliver all of our customers’ Fluzone vaccine by the end of November, well ahead of the peak of seasonal influenza disease, which typically occurs in February or later.   

 
The challenge of producing two influenza vaccines in one year, however, will result in an extended shipping period for your Fluzone vaccine.  You can expect to receive your remaining Fluzone vaccine shipments through September and October, with your final shipment of approximately 20% of your reservation delivered in November. In order to help you plan your seasonal influenza immunization efforts, sanofi pasteur provides a rolling 4-week window of visibility into scheduled shipments. For detailed information on your anticipated ship date, please log onto VaccineShoppe.com® or call 1-800-VACCINE (1-800-822-2463).
 
Because some seasonal influenza vaccine will be delivered after the likely start of H1N1 vaccinations in October, it is important that you plan to continue your seasonal immunization efforts in November and beyond to ensure that your patients have an opportunity to receive their seasonal immunization.   
Indication 
Fluzone vaccine is indicated for active immunization in persons 6 months of age and older against influenza virus types A and B contained in the vaccine.
 

Safety Information 
The most common local and systemic adverse reactions to Fluzone vaccine include soreness at the vaccination site that can last up to 2 days, pain, and swelling; fever, malaise, and myalgia. Other adverse reactions may occur. Influenza vaccine should not be administered to anyone with a history of hypersensitivity to any vaccine component, including eggs, egg products, or thimerosal (the only presentation that contains thimerosal is the multi-dose vial). Fluzone vaccine should not be administered to individuals who have a prior history of Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS). Vaccination with Fluzone vaccine may not protect all individuals.
 
Thank you for your patience with the altered shipping schedule. If you have questions or comments please contact kathy@pediafed.com.