A few weeks ago my household saw the H1N1 virus (AKA swine flu) being passed around. Now many of you may already be aware of what transpired as I documented how my son had the privilege of bringing this virus home from his class and then sent it along to my youngest child and then on to my wife all within about a week’s period (please see my earlier article for greater detail: http://www.dailystrength.org/experts/dr-jeremy/article/time-for-some-natural-immunity). I believe my oldest child and myself were spared as earlier this year we had symptoms consistent with influenza a month or two after the swine flu concern was in full effect, and therefore, we have had some natural immunity over these last few months.

And in this same article I mention above, I also stated because my entire family now has some natural immunity to the swine flu, I felt and continue to believe the swine flu vaccine is not necessary for any of us. But please let me be clear this in NO WAY implies I am anti-swine flu vaccine because that would be farthest from the truth. In fact, with how easily this virus has spread over the past few weeks (something I have not seen with the traditional seasonal flu) and with some increased concern of the secondary infections occurring with those who are acquiring the swine flu, pneumonias included, I am asking my patients to come in as soon as we have the vaccine available.

So with this in mind, let me shift my attention to where the H1N1 vaccine currently stands as we head into the latter half of October. If not already, most offices should be receiving the vaccine over the next week or two. It appears the first version of the vaccine to reach the public will be the flu mist (nasal spray). This is the live-attenuated version that may be given to 2-49 year old individuals who do not have any underlying significant medical issues (e.g. asthma, heart disease, immune-deficiency disorders), wheezing during the preceding 12 months, not currently pregnant, and a few other criteria that should be discussed with your health care provider.

And while I would like to see everyone receive the vaccine (injectable form when available will be for infants as young as 6 months of age as well as adults 50 and older), there are some high risk groups that should receive the vaccine first (or at least until we have more vaccine available), a household with an infant less than 6 months of age or someone with an underlying medical issue (including asthma), pregnant mothers, and health care workers. Keep in mind children less than 10 years of age will need 2 doses of the vaccine (either form) probably 4 weeks apart but that may change to as little as 3 weeks.

As far as the preparation of the Swine/H1N1 vaccine (no different from the seasonal flu vaccine), the same technology being used for both. So, in principle, I would expect the safety profile to be similar to the regular seasonal flu vaccine.

I hope this clarifies my stance but if any further questions, please send my way.


Dr. Jeremy