Many pregnant women and mothers with children of all ages are hearing their care providers recommend the H1N1 vaccine for themselves and their children. Many are also wondering what the risks and benefits of the vaccine are, and if it is right for their families. When making the decision, there are many important things to consider. While clinical data is limited and preliminary in many cases, there are several trials being sponsored by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease. Their collected data and results can be found here. They compare data for the following categories of participants: Healthy, non-pregnant adults 18 years and older, healthy children aged 6 months through 17 years old, healthy pregnant women, people with asthma, and children, youth and pregnant women who have HIV infection.
When possible for mother and baby, breastfeeding may also play a role in the health of babies who are unable to receive the vaccine. The International Lacation Consultant Association, backed by data and statements from the Centers for Disease Control, encourages exclusive breastfeeding of newborns and babies in an effort to fight influenza infection overall. Their official statement and more information can be found here.
Whether you decide to vaccinate or not is truly a personal decision that must include assessment of your family's individual risks and benefits. For more information on the H1N1 vaccine, click here, or use the CDC's Wonder Tool to see the Vaccine Adverse Event Reports and other vaccine data.
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