normal flu vaccine

[Honey693]

DD's doctor told me at the last visit we'd be discussing the flu vaccine (DD would need 2 rounds???) at the 12 month check and she wanted to give me a heads up so I could research it and make my decision. I know I don't want DD to get it, but I have no idea why. Other than thinking it's stupid what are the risks and effectiveness of this vaccination?

[TanyaS]

The flu vaccine is ineffective in children under two.

http://www.bmj.com/cgi/reprint/333/7574/912.pdf

In children under 2 years inactivated vaccines
had the same field efficacy as placebo

[Sileree]

:

Exactly.

[Marnica]

Depending what brand you would get...there is the potential of injecting your baby with mercury and other toxins.

[claddaghmom]

Originally Posted by Crystal_R

DD's doctor told me at the last visit we'd be discussing the flu vaccine (DD would need 2 rounds???) at the 12 month check and she wanted to give me a heads up so I could research it and make my decision. I know I don't want DD to get it, but I have no idea why. Other than thinking it's stupid what are the risks and effectiveness of this vaccination?

1. studies show it is ineffective for youngsters
2. some of the flu vaccines (flumist??) still contain thim
3. the vaccines are made w/ a few specific strains in mind, betting that those are the only ones you'll be exposed to.
4. your dd is over the 'scary pre-6 month range'

[Deborah]

flumist doesn't contain thimerosal, but some flu vaccines do.

Learn about immune boosting--maintaining a healthy immune system is the best way to cope with seasonal stuff like flu.

[katelove]

If it helps, 'flu vax is not offered to children in Australia as part of the normal vaccine schedule. It is only offered to people who are high risk due to age or other health problems and to health care workers.