Flu Vaccination Rule Suspended

According to an article by the New York Times, Govener David A. Paterson has suspended the mandate that New York City Health Workers must receive both the annual influenza and H1N1 vaccination or face penalties. Mr. Paterson notes his decision was made based upon the need for the limited vaccine in certain health populations such as young children and pregnant women rather than the recent lawsuit and restraining order.

This is a temporary win for the sect of healthcare workers who believe it should be their choice to take a potentially harmful, untested immunization. This is especially important in light of the fact that there has been legal immunity granted to vaccine makers in cases of adverse effects of the H1N1 vaccine and the fact that there is no proof of H1N1 causing more death or disability than the seasonal flu. This decision, however, has not ended the debate and more panic and government intervention can likely be expected before the flu season is through.