QUESTION: I have a 5 year old son who has asthma, I am not sure weather or not to get him the vaccine. I was wondering how long has the vaccine been around? Was there one in 1976? In a medicial opinion should I get him vaccinated?

ANSWER: CDC is recommending persons 6 months to 24 year old receive the H1N1 vaccine and those individuals at higher risk for complications such as asthma patients should receive the vaccine. Suggestion: have son receive vaccine after discussion with primary care physician.

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QUESTION: Which older folks are eligible for vaccine? Is there an age limit or certain pre-existing conditions that will qualify for vaccine?

ANSWER: Per the CDC recommendations, adults under the age of 65 with medical conditions should get the vaccine. It is also recommended any one over 65 or any one with medical conditions also receive a seasonal flu vaccine.

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QUESTION: I have asked a handful of doctors his question, but keep hearing conflicing answers. My husband, 4 year old, 2 year old and I all had the flu last week. Symptoms were that of swine but we were not tested. Should we still get the H1N1 vaccine?

ANSWER: Since most people with flu like illnesses will nto be testedthis season, the majority will not know whether they have been infected with the 2009 H1Ni flu virus. Therefore, if you were ill but do not know if you had the H1N1 infection, vaccinations should be done if your primary care physician recommends it.