Assuring the Influenza Vaccine Supply

Influenza disease epidemics occur seasonally in the United States and cause significant morbidity and mortality among certain high-risk groups. Influenza vaccines have been shown to decrease mortality and morbidity from influenza infection and are a safe and effective means of influenza prevention. Despite the availability of vaccine many high-risk groups are not vaccinated annually as is recommended by public health and medical experts. Lack of predictable, widespread vaccine uptake contributes to production and market issues affecting a consistently adequate and timely influenza vaccine supply. Problems with vaccine production in general are exacerbated by unique qualities of influenza vaccine production. Added to these problems is the urgent need to prepare for an impending influenza pandemic. Addressing these issues will involve public education and promotion of influenza vaccine, research and development of new vaccine technology and government intervention to assure a safe and adequate influenza vaccine supply.Master of Public Healt