Half- or full-does of the vaccine?

How is it determined if a child should receive a half- or full- dose of the vaccine?

The recommendations are made by Health Canada based on research showing how many children respond to the half dose and how much antibody they produce.

Should children under three receive a second dose of the vaccine?

Yes, when young children get a flu shot they generally do not make as much antibody as adults. Thus they usually will need a second shot. Health Canada recommends a second shot in order to be sure that these children get the full benefit of the vaccine since they have the greatest risk of severe  infection. There is no additional risk from a second shot.

Back to main H1N1 Q&A