Polio Survivors and H1N1

Question: I have concerns regarding the H1N1 vaccine. Are polio survivors considered an at-risk group?

Answer: Based on my reading of current public health updates, people who had polio earlier in life are NOT considered ‘high-risk’ for developing H1N1 flu. I suggest that you consider receiving the vaccine when it is available to the general public, if you are a polio survivor with significant respiratory compromise (reduced pulmonary function), or if your general health is poor from heart or kidney problems, or if you will be around many young children as a child care worker or health care professional. I recommend that you consult your family physician who knows your complete health history, and after doing a little homework of your own, make the decision in consultation with him/her.

Post-Polio Health (Vol. 25, No. 4, Winter 2009)