Test Your Luck With New Swine Flu Vaccine

Did the idea of catching swine flu (H1N1) have you down and hiding from both public spaces and children last spring? (We told ya you'd be fine.) Well, now researchers at Seattle's Group Health Cooperative have introduced an experimental swine flu vaccine in preparation for a possible resurgence of the H1N1 flu come fall. Oh, great. Seattle--selected as one of the few cities for the H1N1 trial--is set to begin the experimental vaccinations on brave volunteers today at Seattle Children's Hospital and the University of Washington. But if you're allergic to eggs, this shot is not for you.

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By Kim P. in News on August 7, 2009 9:30 AM

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bilco

So, this is a vaccine to prevent bacon and eggs? Or made from bacon and eggs? Or pitting bacon vs. eggs? Please, help me out here!

sevenless

Huh. Why are they calling it experimental I wonder? It's my understanding it's being produced just like the seasonal vaccines. They grow up the virus in eggs (which is why you can't get flu shots if you're allergic,) kill it, then formulate the vaccine itself (dead virus + other stuff to get your immune system more excited about the virus,) then package it up. Oh, and probably lots of QA testing, etc. I'm simplifying here.

You do get paid to be a guinea pig. You have to give them blood several times. I think they've probably gotten all the healthy adult volunteers they need. You might have better luck if you're a toddler.

sevenless

Doh, ok so adult volunteers are still being recruited. I'd go for it if it's convenient. If it works--great. If it doesn't--no harm done, and you'll still get paid. There won't be time this year to make something else, so it's not like you won't be eligible or whatever for something new.