The IDF has begun administering H1N1 (swine) flu vaccines to soldiers. The criteria for soldiers to receive the vaccines are the same as for civilians; until sufficient supplies are received from manufacturers, only soldiers with previous serious diseases or those working in a medical capacity will be inoculated. The eligible soldiers have already been scheduled for their vaccinations, an IDF spokesperson said.
Government officials say that the rest of the population will be able to have their inoculations within several months. The delay is due to a worldwide shortage of the vaccine, which is being manufactured by only a few companies.