Young persons from 10 to 18 years can now get Panvax H1N1 vaccination after the Ministry of Health (MOH) and the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) found the product by CSL Limited safe for this age group. -- PHOTO: AFP
YOUNG persons aged 10 to 18 can now be vaccinated against the Influenza A (H1N1) virus in Singapore.
The Ministry of Health (MOH) and the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) have reviewed the safety of Australian pharmaceutical giant CSL's Panvax and found it safe for this age group, they said in a joint statement on Thursday.
The vaccine has been available here since early November but had not been licensed for use on those under 18 until now.
Health officials are urging those at higher risk of developing flu-related complications, especially those with existing underlying conditions like asthma and apilepsy, to receive the H1N1 shots.
It takes up to two weeks for a person who is innoculated to build immunity against the virus, they added.
Parents can now place orders and book an appointment with polyclinics or their general practitioners. However, the use of the vaccine for those under 10 is still being reviewed and a recommendation will be revealed soon, said health officials.
