Traveling O/seas - Swine Flu jab???

[babycart]

Hi Everyone,

Sorry for another swine/flu needle question

I normally would not get the flu shot, or give it to 8month DD.

However, we will be traveling to America for 3 weeks in May. We are going to San Fransisco, Denver, Chicago and Milwaukee.

We will be staying with family for part of the time. They have a 2 1/2 year old and a 7 month old - who are both in full time day care.


My concerns are:

- The US has different germs to Australia - so I won't really be passing any immunity on to DD through BF
- We are staying with 2 babies - so increased risk of catching something


My MCHN suggested that we get the flu vaccine - which is combined with the swine flu vac here in WA.

Given this scenario - would you give the vaccination to DD? Or should I get the vaccination and the antibodies be transferred to DD through breast milk?

Thanks

AC

[EdensMama]

Hi there,

I think its great you're travelling overseas!

I just came from being in the USA for 2 months with a 14mo old.

I did find that we have different immunity etc over here as opposed to the USA, and DD did get the flu a couple of times. We went to the doctor a few times- firstly to get her ears checked as she had an ear infection, so we popped her on antibiotics and the second time she had some mild croup. Both flus she got, I believe, by being in a creche situation, but not from hanging out with our family friends.

All of this was a little stressful and hardwork on my part, but DD handled most of this with ease and a great attitude. I think they totally respond to stress with stress, so when we were calm, she was calm.

None of this would have been prevented by the swine flu vaccine. Kids will get sick and in the end it gives their immune system a good work out in my humble opinion.

Personally, I would never get the swine flu vaccine at all. I don't believe enough testing was done on this particular vaccine and when I researched it I was not satisfied that it was safe enough for either me, or my daughter.

If you do choose to get the vaccine, go for the needle jab, not the nasal spray which contains the LIVE h1n1 virus.

I think there is a lot of fear associated with h1n1, and we travelled extensively for the 2 months over in the states and didn't meet anyone who had had the virus. Also you'll be there when they're coming into spring, not in the dead of winter/flu season too, so that is an advantage.

Just my thoughts anyway- I hope enjoy your trip!

[alexsmom]

hi there!

lucky you going on a trip!!

we went on a "trip around the world' in october-november .we were a week in singapore, week in london, 5 weeks in canada. it was their autumn season and there was A LOT of hype about the swine flu jab. We COULD have got it in canada as both my kids are canadian, but we decided against it.

i agree with edensmama - Personally, I would never get the swine flu vaccine at all. I don't believe enough testing was done on this particular vaccine and when I researched it I was not satisfied that it was safe enough for either me, or my daughter. unlike edensmama tho- I did actually meet about 3 people who were just getting over swine flu- which did make me worry!

I did go overboard with the antibacterial hand wash stuff and was constantly washing their hands with it when we were out shopping or at a restaurant whatever. I swear my kids were healthiest when we were in Canada

so long story short- nope I didnt get it for me or my kids.

have a great trip!

[babycart]

Thanks for your responses ladies!

Anyone else???

[babybabycakes]

I personally wouldnt get it. not enough research into the vax.

also it wont be flu season when u go over.

i didnt get the shot when pregnant and wont while breastfeeding, but thats personal choice.