For those of us wondering what's up with the flu vaccines, I asked my dr today and this is what he told me: The "regular" flu vaccine is available now, for anyone who wants it. The nasal spray can be used by anyone over the age of 2 (I always wondered that) but he doesn't keep them on hand because a lot of people don't use it, so he calls it into a pharmacy, they get it and "apply it" to the customer. It is considered a "live" vaccine, so there is a better chance of actually getting the flu from this as opposed to the shot. The H1N1 vaccine will not be available until sometime in October, and they have not been told yet who will be allowed to get it, but it will be limited due to how much they'll have. And it will more than likely come in the form of nasal spray first, just because of manufacturing. NOW...my question is...who here has ever had the nasal spray vaccine, and if so, did you get sick from it? My 6 yo is terrified of shots, and I would prefer to do the spray, but not if he's gonna get sick from it!
I've had my seasonal vaccine and it didn't even hardly hurt at all. Little comfort to a young child, though. My son went a couple of years ago to get one. He was so scared and crying that he didn't even realize that the nurse had given it to him already. He was so emotional he began laughing because he didn't even feel it. Not sure about the N1H1 shot, though. I've heard that some doctor's offices are not giving them because the feds are paying for it. Therefore, the vaccines are going straight to county health departments to give out so that all those in high risk groups are vaccinated first.
Both of mine had it last year. This year, the oldest went with the the flumist and the younger wouldn't do it so he got the shot. No reactions. I did ask about the H1N1 vaccine and the dr. said he did not recommend it. Said the virus was not really any worse than the regular flu and that the shot could have adverse effects on kids. He didn't feel it would be worth the risk.
