Got that weird feeling again

[boomer78]

When our DD was born, I didn't know any better. Well I knew, but wasn't listening to my intuition. When asked to sign for the HepB shot, I kind of got that weird feeling like it's not right. It was very strong. But because I generally dislike being in a hospital and so wasn't feeling like myself, was about to deliver our first child thus not thinking straight, I signed. As soon as I could, I looked it up. I felt horrible and still do. I should have listened! My intuition has always proved right. We decided no more vaxes. At least not for now.

I watch other children, one of which got 8 shots just a couple of days ago. 4 live, MMR and Varicella. I bring our DD with me to their house. She is sort of crawling now (7m). I keep her away from them, absolutely no touching. I try and carry her as much as I can. The problem is though, they don't wash their hands as much as they should. I can make them while I'm at the house, but when I'm gone it's another story.

I understand the live vaccines can shed.

The child who got the vaccines started sneezing. He has allergies, so it's probably that...but who knows? I drive them places, too. So DD is exposed in the car as well, in a pretty small space.

I don't want to overreact. But at the same time, I don't want to expose her!

How long would you be extra causious? What would you do? Or am I completely overreacting? DD is fully BF at this point.

[nia82]

Generally, live vaccines shed for about 28 days... I'd be cautious too, especially if the vaccinated child sneezes and shows other symptoms.

[cocoanib]

Is there any way for you to keep DD away from them for a month? Can someone watch her while your at their house? I would be worried too.

[boomer78]

Oh boy... No one else to watch her, I either stay home with her and risk losing a job or I work, bringing her with me. I'm especially worried about the car issue. The kids are sitting way to close for my comfort.... 28 days is a long time!

I did let the other parents know about the issue. They are pro vax and didn't even know that some vaccines can shed. They probably think it's no big deal. They know we're not vaxing.

[2boyzmama]

Is your dd breastfed? She should get some passive immunity that way.

This would be no different than if you were a vaxing family with an older sibling getting their shots. Younger kids get exposed to shedding viruses all the time, and unless she has a medical reason to avoid the known exposure, I wouldn't go out of my way to avoid it.

You have immunities, your immune system is responding to the shedding virus (if it is shedding) and releasing those antibodies. Those antibodies are being passed on to her. She should be fine.

YOu could take some Vit C supplements to try to boost your immune system if it's concerning you.

[boomer78]

Yes, DD is EBF at this point. I will start taking extra Vit C.

You've made a very good point. I may even be going overboard with this. The only difference in this situation (siblings vs. other children) is that I wash my hands a lot and the children I watch don't. Usually if I don't ask them they won't (after using the bathroom, coming home from school, when sick, etc.).

Thank you for your time!

[cocoanib]

Originally Posted by boomer78

Yes, DD is EBF at this point. I will start taking extra Vit C.

You've made a very good point. I may even be going overboard with this. The only difference in this situation (siblings vs. other children) is that I wash my hands a lot and the children I watch don't. Usually if I don't ask them they won't (after using the bathroom, coming home from school, when sick, etc.).

Thank you for your time!

Yep, just keep doing what your'e doing with keeping the kids clean. Also, keep them away from her face and hands.
Eat well, take lot's of C and keep BFing that LO!