Live H1N1 Virus in Nasal Spray Vaccination
Inhaled Swine Flu Vaccine Unsafe for Those With Weak Immune Response
Oct 22, 2009
The swine flu vaccine is created within chicken eggs, and is processed to create a large batch of antigen, which will provoke an immune response within the vaccinated individual. H1N1 vaccine that is intended for injection contains only purified pieces of dead swine flu virus, which is unable to cause an infection, but stimulates the production of antibodies within the body. Inhaled swine flu vaccine, however, contains the living H1N1 virus, and should not be administered to certain individuals as a result.
Eligibility for the H1N1 Nasal Spray Vaccine
The H1N1 nasal spray vaccine is licensed by the FDA for the majority of people aged over two years and under 50 years. Children under age two and adults aged 50 and over should not get the inhaled version of the vaccine. Pregnant women are also restricted from vaccination by the live virus, as are any individuals who have compromised immune function or certain long-term health problems.
Health problems that should prevent the use of the H1N1 nasal spray vaccine include disease of the heart, kidneys, liver, or lungs. Diabetes, anemia, asthma, or cerebral palsy. Anyone with a permanent, long-term health condition should consult their physician to ensure that they are a good candidate for the inhaled swine flu vaccine, prior to being vaccinated.
Swine Flu Virus Infection via the Nasal Spray Vaccine
The virus used in the H1N1 nasal spray vaccine has been attenuated, or weakened, but it is still alive. The fact that the virus is alive makes this type of vaccine tend to be more effective in the prevention of the swine flu, or other strains of influenza. It also makes the vaccine riskier, however.
Live virus vaccines carry a risk of genetic instability, which can cause them to revert to their previous virulent state, according to Alan Cann's book, Virus Culture, a Practical Approach. For this reason, extensive testing must be done on new vaccines as they are created to treat new viral influenza strains. Without comprehensive testing, a live vaccine can increase the spread of the disease, rather than stopping it.
Swine Flu Vaccine Testing
Preliminary clinical trials of the swine flu nasal spray vaccine have shown no severe side effects, or increased risk of infection in children or adults. Over 600 people, including 326 children, have received doses of the inhaled H1N1 vaccine, in clinical trials performed by MedImmune, with no serious side effects to date.
Avoiding the H1N1 Vaccine
Avoiding the H1N1 vaccine may result in infection with the swine flu virus. Even individuals who are ineligible for the inhaled swine flu vaccine should still be vaccinated using the H1N1 injection, in order to prevent potential complications, as well as preventing the spread of the swine flu virus.
Related Topics:
Process Causes Swine Flu Vaccine Shortage
Tests, Eggs, and Outdated Production Methods Delay H1N1 Vaccinations
Vulnerable populations get H1N1 vaccinations first, but supplies are low. Swine flu vaccine shortages leave patients waiting, to get infected with the swine flu virus.
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.
References:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Interim Clinical Trial Results
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