How to Decide about the H1N1 Vaccine for Babies

The swine flu (H1N1) vaccine for babies contains many toxic ingredients, but the CDC says that the swine flu is highly dangerous. Parents should have all the available information before making a decision about the H1N1 vaccine for babies.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Read the package insert. The only H1N1 vaccine for babies is made by Sanofi Pasteur, and the package insert is listed on the FDA's website. (A link to this page is in the resources section below)

2. Understand the ingredients. For example, formaldehyde is a known carcinogen, thimerosal is a preservative that contains mercury, polyethylene glycol p-isooctylphenyl ether is a suspected carcinogen, and sucrose is another name for sugar.

3. Read the fine print. Safety testing and side effect information included in the package insert is general information from previous formulations of the seasonal flu vaccine. The H1N1 vaccine for babies has not gone through the rigorous testing process that the FDA generally requires of vaccines.

Tips & Warnings

• Weigh risks vs. benefits. While there is no comprehensive safety testing of the H1N1 vaccine for babies, it is made with the same processes and ingredients as many other vaccines that have had extensive safety testing. Infants are vulnerable to severe viral infections, such as the swine flu, and should be protected if possible.
• Be aware of allergies. The H1N1 vaccine for babies contains egg proteins, and can cause allergic reactions to anyone who has an egg allergy. An extremely young infant may not have eaten eggs yet, so you may not be aware of the allergy unil after the shot.

Resources

• Sanofi Pasteur Swine Flu Vaccine Package Insert
• Thimerosal in the Swine Flu Vaccine