Q&A: Swine flu vaccine

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Is the vaccine safe?
Doubts have been raised about the safety of the vaccine. Normally clinical trials of new vaccines take two years, but GlaxoSmithKline has admitted it might not "have the luxury of time". Health Secretary Andy Burnham has insisted he will never take any risks over the safety of swine flu jabs, while Professor Sir Gordon Duff, co-chairman of the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies, said the benefits of the jabs "far outweigh the risks". He added: "These core vaccines have been tested on 5,000 to 6,000 people already, with no serious adverse effects."

Are there side-effects?
GlaxoSmithKline admitted people may experience pain where the inoculation is given. Other side-effects include fainting.

How do I get the vaccine?
School nurses may vaccinate children, and it is likely that GPs would have to vaccinate other age groups.

How much will be available?
The Government has ordered 60 million doses which will be enough for half the population by Christmas. Everyone will need two doses.

When will it be available?
The first stocks of the vaccine will begin to arrive next month but it will take several months before there is enough for everyone to be vaccinated. Those classed as high risk will be in line for it first, which includes frontline health workers, old people and the under-16s.