The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), in conjunction
with the Ad Council and the Jim Henson Company, has released a new
series of 30-second public service announcements (PSAs) about the
importance of getting the 2009 H1N1 vaccine. Targeted to parents and
children, the PSA campaign features 15 governors, a state first lady, a
state chief medical officer and the main character from the PBS’ series
“Sid the Science Kid” and reminds the public that getting vaccinated is
the best way to stay healthy during this flu season.
“While disease has declined in many areas of
the country, the flu is unpredictable and there could be additional
waves of illness. Getting vaccinated is the best way to lessen the
impact of, or even prevent, another wave of H1N1 flu.”
“Children are especially vulnerable to the H1N1 flu,” said Secretary
Sebelius. “Not only are they at higher risk for complications from H1N1,
they can also easily spread the virus because of school, day care, and
other group activities. That’s why we are pleased to team up with
governors and Sid the Science Kid as we reach out to children and their
parents about the importance of getting vaccinated.”
“Right now, Americans have a window of opportunity to protect themselves
and their communities by getting vaccinated against the 2009 H1N1 flu,”
Secretary Sebelius said. “While disease has declined in many areas of
the country, the flu is unpredictable and there could be additional
waves of illness. Getting vaccinated is the best way to lessen the
impact of, or even prevent, another wave of H1N1 flu.”
Children, young adults under 25, pregnant women and adults 25-64 with
underlying health conditions such as asthma, are more susceptible to
falling ill to the 2009 H1N1 flu and are at higher risk for serious
medical complications, including hospitalization and death. The Advisory
Committee on Immunization Practices recommends that individuals in these
groups, as well as caretakers of children younger than 6 months of age,
and health care workers, get the H1N1 vaccine as soon as possible.