What are your opinions on the swine flu vaccine?

Will your children be getting the H1N1 flu vaccine?

• Why or why not? How old are they? Will you be getting it yourself as well? Where do you live? I'm interested in hearing other parents opinions of the vaccine. I've been following the swine flu stories since April, so I know a lot of the details, but I am not sure if I will be getting the vaccine for my 3 year old. "Eighty-six children have died of swine flu in the U.S. since it burst on the scene last spring — 43 of those deaths reported in September and early October alone, said CDC's Dr. Anne Schuchat. That's a startling number because in some past winters, the CDC has counted 40 or 50 child deaths for the entire flu season, she said, and no one knows how long this swine flu outbreak will last. Half of those early fall child deaths are among teenagers, also surprising as preschoolers are thought to be most vulnerable" http://www.usatoday.com/news/washington/2009-10-16-swine-flu_N.htm?csp=34 It's quite a confusing decision to make, I believe. Well, thank you for your time.

• Answer:

  At this time in our area the only availble vaccine is the weakened/nasal inhalation form. I work in healthcare & I refuse to get the weakened vaccine. We are pushing for my three year old step-daughter to not receive that form of vaccination as well. When the deadened/injectable form becomes availble we may decide to become vaccinated at that time. I think it's too risky to receive a weakened virus of any kind. We wash our hands frequently & protect ourselves the best we can. I've heard that if anyone recieves the vaccine (weakened/nasal) that everyone in the household should also be vaccinated. This is a personal choice & I encourage anyone to do their own research before any decisions are made.