Stay safe during swine flu outbreak

Federal officials urged against panic last week and asked for patience and understanding as the government works to distribute H1N1 vaccines and contain the spread of the virus. Here we answer some common questions about the H1N1 virus and the government's response to the outbreak.

Question. I hear the flu is at its peak right now. Does that mean the outbreak is almost over?

Answer. Studies have predicted that the H1N1 peak would occur around this time, but Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius warns that it may be "overly optimistic" to assume that the virus will peak and then be gone shortly after. Sebelius cites what happened last spring, when the virus didn't entirely disappear after its peak.

Q. Why are there fewer doses of the vaccine than had been originally estimated?

A. To make a vaccine, scientists first have to grow the virus in labs. Some viruses grow slower than others. A slow-growing virus can delay vaccine manufacturing time, as was the case with the H1N1 virus. There were also some glitches in the production lines that slowed the rate that manufacturers could package and release the vaccine.

Q. I heard that the U.S. is donating 10 percent of vaccines to developing countries. Why are we doing this when we don't have enough for the people in this country?

A. The H1N1 virus has impacted the entire world and officials want to contain its spread as much as possible. The U.S. joined with 11 other countries to commit to send vaccines to developing countries.

Q. What can I do to protect myself against the flu if I can't find or can't get to a vaccine site?

A. Follow the flu safety guidelines, which include covering your mouth when you cough, washing your hands and staying home if you feel sick.