the statement 'showcasing the possible side effects, however minimal, to your readers.' ... Sounds a bit strong to me ... ('showcasing' is the giveaway ;) The last thing we need to do is encourage panic.

Perhaps a better story would focus on despite how overwhelming the evidence is in favor of flu vaccination, there is a small but vocal minority ... See Morewho insists the risks are greater than the available evidence suggests... and how this exists as an extension to a similar attitude about vaccination in general.

I agree that the mention of risk should be included, but only based on real risk supported by what the underlying science and vast body of research say.

Christine and Blaine, thanks for your comments. There is a lot more information on our H1N1 Information page, including links to articles on flu vaccine safety and a feature where you can ask one of our doctors your specific questions: http://www.umm.edu/news/swineflu.htm