KSA may not need H1N1 vaccine in student health plan (updated)

The Kwantlen Student Association likely won’t have to cover the cost of the H1N1 vaccine for students under its health and dental plan.

The student association originally wanted to include the vaccine in the health plan and subsidize some or all of the cost, but the federal, provincial and territorial governments might pay for vaccinations for students.

“At this stage, it looks like they may be offered for free by the province,” said Desmond Rodenbour, general manger of the KSA. “However, if there is a charge, we’re going to make sure they’re covered under the health and dental plan.”

The Public Health Agency of Canada has said the federal government will cover 60 per cent of the cost, leaving provincial and territorial governments to cover the difference if they choose.

Although the university provides seasonal flu shots, they will not have H1N1 vaccines on campus, according to Janine Hadfield of the Kwantlen Wellness Centre.

“It’s going to be totally regulated by Public Health,” said Hadfield. “The roll-out starts with [people with] chronic illness and pregnant women, then it goes to young under six and further down the road it’s for the everyday person.”

Hadfield noted that health regions in the Lower Mainland may distribute the vaccine differently.

Currently, the vaccine is only available to specific groups, such as pregnant women and adults under 65 with chronic illnesses. Vancouver Coastal Health and Fraser Health is planning to make the H1N1 shot available to everyone in mid-November.

Thomas Ewing, 21, a business student at Kwantlen, is skeptical about the benefits of the H1N1 vaccine.

“I’m not a conspiracy theorist, but I’m kind of wondering why the vaccine’s being pushed out on everybody,” said Ewing. “The H1N1 [vaccine] is still too untested for my liking.”

Jared Busse, 19, also a business student, said he feels the dangers of H1N1 have been blown out of proportion.

“It’s just an overhyped cold just ‘cause it’s new and they don’t know how to deal with it,” he said.