Dutch individuals eligible for and seeking vaccination against H1N1 (swine flu) will still receive two doses.
Recent studies from Chinese, American, and Australian researchers indicate that a single dose provides robust protection for adults. In Australia, 75-96% of adults showed sufficient immunity after one shot.
Virologist Ab Osterhaus notes that the Netherlands uses a different vaccine formulation, necessitating two doses for optimal results. While one shot offers good protection, a second enhances it further. He advises adhering to the two-dose protocol.
Medical risk groups qualifying for three flu vaccinations—totaling about 4.5 million people—should start with a standard seasonal flu shot in October, followed by two H1N1 doses.
