While many insurers across the nation have voluntarily said they will cover seasonal flu and H1N1 vaccinations, New York Gov. David A. Paterson is making it a mandate for the state’s youngest residents.

David Paterson

Patterson announced Sept. 10 that insurers must cover both seasonal flu and H1N1 shots for residents ages 19 and younger and enrolled in comprehensive health plans and not subject to co-payment, co-insurance or annual deductible. The governor said the policy is consistent with the state’s Child Wellness Law, requiring insurance coverage for vaccinations recommended by the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP).

ACIP has advised that children receive both immunizations amid an expected outbreak of both diseases this fall. The CDC has identified children as on of the priority groups to receive the H1N1vacine, along with those aged 25 to 64 with underlying medical conditions and pregnant women.

“As we prepare for the upcoming flu season and the expected resurgence of the novel H1N1 virus, we are working to ensure that New York’s families have access to the resources they need to keep their children healthy,” Paterson said in a statement. “We want parents to know this flu season, preventive care is available and your insurance company will cover it.”

The governor added that children without health insurance also will get access to the vaccine through the Vaccines for Children program and local health department flu vaccine clinics.

James J. Wrynn, the state’s acting insurance commissioner, called the Child Wellness Law protections “particularly important” in light of the coming flu season as children are “uniquely vulnerable” to H1N1.

“Governor Paterson has stressed the importance of child health care, and the Insurance Department will continue to do all it can to protect New York’s children,” Wrynn said.

In addition to mandating vaccines, New York has also developed and begun implementing a comprehensive statewide plan to minimize effects of H1N1, including town hall meetings briefing officials and the public, as well as stressing simple prevention measures such as hand washing and use of alcohol-based hand cleansers.