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SINGAPORE: Singapore health authorities have approved the use of the H1N1 vaccine for youths aged 10 to 18.
Previously, the vaccine was only approved for those above the age of 18. This comes a day after the death of a two-year-old boy who tested positive for H1N1.
Authorities said on Thursday they have reviewed the safety of the CSL Limited Panvax H1N1 Vaccine and are satisfied that it can be used on children above the age of 10.
For this group, they are recommended to receive a single dose of 0.5ml (15mcg) vaccine. This is similar to the current adult dose recommendation. The vaccine takes a couple of weeks to take effect.
Authorities said while the vaccination is voluntary, it is important to note that the vaccine can help to protect people from being infected with the H1N1 influenza virus.
They are strongly recommending the vaccine to those in the younger age bracket, especially those who have pre-existing chronic conditions such as asthma and other chronic lung diseases, heart diseases, epilepsy, kidney diseases, blood disorders or diabetes.
Another reason for the strong recommendation is due to the large number of H1N1 cases that has occurred among the youths.
But concerned parents with children under the age of 10 will still have to wait and see if the vaccine will be approved for their kids.
Health Minister Khaw Boon Wan said: "For those who are very young, I think safety is not an issue; the issue is dosage... for example, one modality is to give half a dose but do it twice... these are some of the technicalities that we have to leave to the experts to evaluate."
According to the latest figures, three in ten flu cases here are H1N1-related, so the Health Ministry is urging parents to make sure that their children practise good personal hygiene habits at home and at school.
- CNA/so
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