The high number of flu cases this season is creating a shortage of mercury-free vaccines.
That shortage has led Delaware’s Department of Public Health (DPH) to lift a state ban on use of vaccines containing mercury.
State law prohibits giving vaccines with mercury (thimerosal) to pregnant women and children under 8. DPH is allowed to suspend that ban because of the shortage and because the flu season has reached epidemic levels according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).
DPH has lifted the ban for the next 12 months. During that time, the law requires providers to inform those getting a flu shot if it contains mercury.
“Public Health has heard from medical providers that thimerosal-free vaccine has become difficult to access,” said DPH director Dr. Karyl Rattay in a statement. “And we know that pregnant women and young children are particularly vulnerable to the flu. Public Health wants to ensure that vaccine is available for those who need it in Delaware.”
Delaware has already had 713 confirmed flu cases this season and two flu-related deaths. last year at this time, thr state had only reported four cases and no flu-related deaths.
DPH continues to encourage those who have not been vaccinated yet to get a flu shot.
