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The H1N1 swine flu is widespread in the United States (US), and many people are concerned that the H1N1 vaccine itself is dangerous. There are unconfirmed reports that four people in Sweden have died in past few days from the H1N1 vaccine. The CDC has not confirmed this information, but all four people received the shot a few days before they died. The vaccine that is received outside the US is different than the vaccine received in the US.
As with any flu shot, you are being given a small dosage of the actual flu, and some people get flu like symptoms for a few days after getting the shot. Some people feel like they have the full blown flu after they get the shot. The decision to take the shot is up to you. If you have specific questions about what is best for you, your doctor can help you decide.
The CDC reports that some H1N1 shots contain the preservative thimerosal, and others don't. Your doctor will know what your shot contains. Some people have expressed concern about thimerosal for children because it's mercury-based, but the CDC states there is no scientific evidence the preservative is harmful.
The CDC reports that 46 states have widespread H1N1 swine influenza. In the last three weeks this number has grown considerably. Over 1,000 people have died nationwide since the beginning of the swine flu season that started on September 1, 2009.
The CDC has recommended a flu shot for those who may experience problems if they contracted the swine flu these groups include: pregnant women, caregivers and household contacts of children younger than 6 months, everyone between the ages of 6 months and 24 years, and people ages 25 to 64 with existing health problems.
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) chief stated last week that the H1N1 vaccine is "remarkably safe" and that there is nothing scary or unique about it that should keep anyone from getting the vaccine. The NIH reported that 11,000,000 H1N1 vaccine shot and nasal sprays have shipped as of October 21st, and that they expected everyone in the US that wants the vaccine will have it by the end of November.
The CDC recommends that most people get the regular flu shot and the H1N1 (swine) shot as soon as they are available.
Click here for an article from the Holistic Health examiner about why you shouldn’t get the flu vaccine.
AP Photo/Sue Agrocki
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