N1H1 Update
Watching the news last night, there was another story about the N1H1 Flu. This story was not about how the World Health Organization has declared this strand of flu a global pandemic. Instead it was about number of calls about allergic reactions to the vaccine. It seems like there is always something to cause us worry. This, like most things, is not as scary as it seems when you have the facts.
The swine flu vaccine, like the regular flu vaccine, is made using chicken’s eggs. It’s a complicated scientific process that there is no need to go into here, but the thing to know is the vaccine contains remnants of egg proteins. Egg allergy is one of the most common food allergies in infants and young children. (Most children will outgrow their allergy to eggs – one study found that half of infants with an egg allergy outgrew it after 35 months and 66% after 5 years.)
Children are considered particularly susceptible to the swine flu. This gives them top priority in receiving the vaccine. If you have a child that is high risk for allergies, talk to your doctor. They can test for allergies prior to giving the vaccine. I am not an expert, so please talk to your family physician regularly to ensure the continued health of your child.
There are ways you can help prevent food allergies from developing and so you would not have to worry about this recent development. Basically if boils down to avoiding high risk foods, especially if your child is at high risk (meaning they already have a known food allergy, eczema, hay fever, or asthma – or has a family member with these problems.) Breastfeeding is vital and so is avoiding foods that are common food allergies in children while you are doing so. Your doctor can give you specific guidelines as far as your and your child’s diets; as well as when it is safe to introduce foods.
The vaccine is important; as is good sanitation around your home. Be sure that you use your UV-C sanitizer wand to disinfect surfaces and objects at home. Wash your bedding, towels and other linens regularly. The best way to keep yourself safe and healthy this flu season is by being aware of your surroundings and being extra diligent with sanitation. This flu season is just starting; make sure you are equipped with the latest and greatest tools.