H1N1 High Risk Groups

People who are at a higher risk for complications if they become infected

As of October 3, 2009, 99% of circulating influenza viruses in the United States were 2009 H1N1 influenza. Among people who become infected with 2009 H1N1, certain groups appear to be at increased risk of complications and may benefit most from early treatment with antiviral medications.

• Children younger than 2 years old



• Adults 65 years of age or older (although it is believed that this age group may have a stronger immunity against H1N1; and therefore are not being recommend in the top 5 groups to receive the vaccine).



• Pregnant women and women up to 2 weeks postpartum (including following pregnancy loss).



• Persons with the following conditions:

• Chronic pulmonary (including asthma), cardiovascular (except hypertension), renal, hepatic, hematological (including sickle cell disease), or metabolic disorders (including diabetes mellitus)
• Disorders that can compromise respiratory function or the handling of respiratory secretions or that can increase the risk for aspiration (e.g., cognitive dysfunction, spinal cord injuries, seizure disorders, or other neuromuscular disorders)
• Immunosuppression, including that caused by medications or by illness

Source: http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/recommendations.htm