Flu Shots

Did anyone get their kids flu shots this year? If you did, did your baby have any temporary side effects to the shot?

Raj

I did not get this year.
There can be mild fever to be expected.. will pass away in a few days. Same applies for all age groups.

My son got his Flu shots last year with his regular shots,not yet this year will most probably get during his 15 month well visit.He had a mild fever for a day or two maybe and no other symptoms.

Thanks AC and Priya. I got mine last year and the year before that and I didn't get any fever but my arm was sore.
Raj

My daughter got her flu shot on her 9-month visit. She had no pain or fever.

Raj, does your pediatrician encourage to get the flu shots every year Riya? If we were back in India, I don't think we'd be giving these shots and I feel if the general health of the baby is good then getting a flu once or twice a year shouldn't be an issue. Especially true because the virus morphs sometimes many times within one season and hence the vaccine cannot prevent all strains and is given for the most common strain which has been predicted to be prevalent that year.

-L.

Originally Posted by Lavanya

Raj, does your pediatrician encourage to get the flu shots every year Riya? If we were back in India, I don't think we'd be giving these shots and I feel if the general health of the baby is good then getting a flu once or twice a year shouldn't be an issue. Especially true because the virus morphs sometimes many times within one season and hence the vaccine cannot prevent all strains and is given for the most common strain which has been predicted to be prevalent that year.

-L.

Lavanya
You are right. The flue vaccine is usually given for the most prevalent common strain.
Also if the child is healthy it is not a must.
Again the fever, soreness varies to every individual.

Originally Posted by Lavanya

Raj, does your pediatrician encourage to get the flu shots every year Riya? If we were back in India, I don't think we'd be giving these shots and I feel if the general health of the baby is good then getting a flu once or twice a year shouldn't be an issue. Especially true because the virus morphs sometimes many times within one season and hence the vaccine cannot prevent all strains and is given for the most common strain which has been predicted to be prevalent that year.

-L.

Lavanya, when I called the pedi's office they said it's important to get the vaccine for infants. I am kind of dithering myself whether to go ahead and get her the shots or not. From what I read online, it seems like it's highly recommended especially for a baby if she gets the virus. Even though Riya doesn't go to a day care we are busy enough with play groups and play dates so I don't want her to catch anything nasty. Truly, I am not sure what to do and this is Riya's first time go get the shot so I am completely confused. If you have any online sites with more info on these shots, please do share.

Raj

Raj,

Check it out. I think its upto the mom (you). As shes the best judge.

Why you need to do it. What is it.How it works.Side Effects if any.

Is the Flu Vaccine a Good Idea for Your Family?

Same confusion as you have and Doc's reply. (read about infants part)

Flu Shots for Infants and Rationing Flu Shots
Do My Kids Need a Flu Shot?
Berkeley Parents Network: Flu Vaccine

Is Flu shot safe?

How Safe is the Flu Shot for Babies? - Parenting.com

Govt facts

Importance of flu shots for infants and children

Noes

Should babies get flu shots? - Topix

Originally Posted by Riyasmommy

Lavanya, when I called the pedi's office they said it's important to get the vaccine for infants. I am kind of dithering myself whether to go ahead and get her the shots or not. From what I read online, it seems like it's highly recommended especially for a baby if she gets the virus. Even though Riya doesn't go to a day care we are busy enough with play groups and play dates so I don't want her to catch anything nasty. Truly, I am not sure what to do and this is Riya's first time go get the shot so I am completely confused. If you have any online sites with more info on these shots, please do share.

Raj

Raj

My suggestion

Go with what the Doctor says.