The New York State Health Department halted a regulation
requiring all healthcare workers in the state to receive both the H1N1 and seasonal
flu inoculations.
A shortage of H1N1 vaccines led to the repeal, according
to New York State health officials.
The state chose instead to focus its resources on pregnant women and
children, two highly at-risk populations. New York, so far, is the only state
with such a mandate.
The New York State Supreme Court last week temporarily
suspended the rule pending review of three lawsuits challenging the mandate.
(McKnight's, 10/20/09). The rule's suspension had nothing to do with the lawsuits, according to state
health officials.