Delays in influenza vaccine distribution or vaccine supply shortages have occurred in the United States in three of the past five influenza seasons. In previous years, prioritization was implemented to ensure the availability of vaccine for persons at the highest risk of complications from influenza. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has released updated recommendations for priority use of trivalent inactivated influenza vaccine (TIV) during the 2005–2006 influenza season. Additional information is available online athttp://www.cdc.gov/flu.

Four manufacturers are expected to provide influenza vaccine during the 2005–2006 influenza season (see accompanying table). Because of uncertainties about the number of available vaccine doses and the timing of distribution, the CDC recommends that the following groups be given priority to receive TIV until October 24, 2005:

• Persons 65 years and older with or without comorbid conditions

• Persons two to 64 years of age with comorbid conditions

• Children six to 23 months of age

• Residents of long-term care facilities

• Pregnant women

• Health care professionals who provide direct patient care

• Household contacts and out-of-home caregivers of children younger than six months

Starting October 24, 2005 all persons will be eligible for vaccination

The tiered use of prioritization is not recommended for LAIV administration. LAIV may be administered at any time for vaccination of nonpregnant healthy persons five to 49 years of age, including most health care professionals and other persons in close contact with groups at high risk for influenza-related complications.