By Sabina Rosu-Urdes

EUGENE, Ore. -- Better to be safe than sorry, health officials seem to be saying in regards to getting the H1N1 flu vaccine out to the people who need it most.

According to the Oregon Department of Human Services, 1,105 people have been hospitalized in Oregon with influenza-like illness since September 1st, 2009, and 40 people have died. People who have an underlying health condition have the greatest risk of contacting the H1N1 virus.

"If you have an underlying health condition, please contact your health care provider. The numbers are telling us that these folks are at an increased risk for H1N1 complications," says Mel Kohn, M.D., M.P.H., Oregon public health director. This includes pregnant women, children 5 and under, and people aged 5-64 with underlying health conditions, such as asthma, diabetes and cardio-pulmonary disease. In addition, those who come in contact with the high-risk group, such as caretakers of infants under 6 months, health care workers and some emergency personnel, should seek out the H1N1 vaccine.

The current limitation of vaccine supplies is only temporary, according to public health officials, and soon they expect to have enough vaccines for everyone. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has allocated another 85,746 doses to Oregon expected by November 20th, bringing the cumulative total to 528,155.

As more H1N1 vaccine arrives, the local health departments will continue vaccinating the priority group until enough doses arrive to reach out to the general public.

For more information on H1N1 flu and vaccines, call the Oregon Public Health Flu Hotline at 1-800-978-3040 or visit www.flu.oregon.gov