Kids May Not Need Extra Swine Flu Vaccination

Two Influenza A (H1N1) Vaccine Shots Not Necessary for Kids Under 10

Oct 24, 2009

Kids under 10 were thought to need two swine flu vaccinations, but clinical trials of an H1N1 flu vaccine show that one swine flu shot is enough for both kids and adults.

The H1N1 virus vaccine is becoming available to everyone, but certain segments of the population, including children and pregnant women, are extremely vulnerable to the swine flu virus. These individuals, along with anyone who cares for infants or children, are encouraged to get the vaccine first. The CDC has issued guidelines for the number of vaccinations required for children, but preliminary clinical trial results may result in changes to these guidelines.

Seasonal Flu Shot Efficiency

The efficiency of the typical seasonal flu shot depends on the age of the patient. For adults and children over age 10, a single dose of the seasonal flu vaccine has been shown to be sufficient to protect the patient from getting infected with the seasonal flu. For babies over six months of age, up to children who are 10 years old, an additional injection is required to provoke enough of an immune response to ensure protection from the flu virus. The CDC has issued guidelines for the swine flu vaccine based on the historical efficiency of the seasonal flu vaccine.

Swine Flu Vaccination for Children

In children under the age of 10 years, one vaccination may not be enough, according to the CDC. The seasonal flu vaccine must be administered twice in children under the age of 10 in order for sufficient protection to develop. The FDA has recommended that children under the age of 10 get two doses of the swine flu vaccine as well, but clinical trials of the swine flu vaccine are showing that the vaccine is potent enough to result in a 94% protection rate with a single dose. Additional trials are underway, in order to determine the potential effects of a second dose of the swine flu vaccine.

Younger Babies and the Swine Flu Shot

The trials performed by Sanofi Pasteur do not apply to children age three and under. Babies under the age of six months are not eligible for seasonal or swine flu vaccination, but can be protected in other ways.

Pregnant women who receive the swine flu shot are likely protecting their unborn child as well. The CDC reports that pregnant women who receive the seasonal flu vaccine are also protecting their unborn child for the first six months of life.
Breastfeeding mothers who receive the flu shot also pass flu immunity to their infant through their milk.
Everyone caring for infants six months and under, or in frequent contact with these infants, should also be immunized to reduce potential exposure.
Infants under the age of six months should be kept away from large groups of people, and anyone who might be sick in order to prevent potential infection.

Prevent Swine Influenza Disease in Kids

Recognize H1N1 Swine Flu Symptoms to Avoid Contagious Infection

Swine flu virus symptoms mimic simple colds, but are more dangerous. Prevent serious illness by avoiding contagious infection from those with H1N1 swine flu symptoms

Benefits & Risks of Swine Flu Shots in Pregnancy

Health Concerns for Pregnant Women Getting the H1N1 Vaccination

Pregnant women getting the H1N1 vaccine weigh benefits and risks of the swine flu shot. Accepting or avoiding the swine flu vaccine will affect both mother and baby.

Dangers to Babies from the Swine Flu Vaccine

H1N1 Vaccination Safety vs. Risks for Infants and Small Children

Infants and toddlers are vulnerable to swine flu infection, but may not be eligible for H1N1 vaccination. The CDC advises of swine flu shot safety and risks for babies.

References:

Sanofi Pasteur

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

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