H1N1: A Spreading Vaccine

The research conducted thus far, in a shortened period of time, has made it impossible to draw accurate conclusions about any long-term harmful immune reactions. And yet, when it comes to flu epidemics, history has illustrated that “fast-tracked” vaccines often seem miraculous prior to the negative long-term discoveries. In 1976, as just one example, a fast-tracked swine flu vaccination led to the death of 2,000 people before its removal. Prior to that, the vaccination for Salk polio was used to inoculate 57 million Americans before the long-term and fatal effects of a main component (African green monkey kidney) were discovered. The common thread among all of these types of vaccinations is the government sponsoring a quick and easy solution with very little care given to the collection of substantial research. In essence, pharmaceutical companies get rich quickly while many are left to deal with the adverse effects.

Such as the following: It is warned that individuals possessing a life-threatening allergy to chicken eggs should avoid taking the H1N1 vaccine. Another concern is the additive called thimerosal, which is one of the vaccine’s ingredients. This is a mercury-based preservative that has been proven to be toxic. Studies have also linked high concentrations of thimerosal (which would result in mercury poisoning) to multiple sclerosis, ADD, and speech and language disorders. Many studies have concluded that it is not associated with autism, but there are numerous critics who disagree. According to Dr. Wolfgang Wodarg, chairman of the health committee in the German parliament and the European Council, the “nutrient solution for the vaccine consists of cancerous cells from animals, and we do not know if there could be allergic reactions.” There is also a documented letter from the Health Care Protection Agency of the United Kingdom warning about a link between the new swine flu vaccines and Guillain-Barré syndrome, a fatal nerve disease. Although each of the single-dose vaccines and the nasal spray formula are free of thimerosal, it is important to understand that all of the multi-dose vaccination formulations contain this ingredient. For more information about vaccines and their common ingredients, visit the FDA’s vaccine page.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has indicated that the highest risks and first priority for vaccinations are: pregnant women, those that live with or look after infants and children, and health care and emergency medical providers. Back in September, Thomas Farley, NYC’s health commissioner had already announced that “the virus [had] infected as many as 1 million New Yorkers, or about 12 percent of the city’s population.” Unlike seasonal influenza, which hits many people 65 years of age and older, H1N1 poses an unusual threat to young, healthy individuals, from birth to age 24. Those between the ages of 25 to 64, with underlying medical conditions, are also susceptible to heightened health complications. Updated reports of H1N1 activity can be found at FluView, a weekly influenza surveillance report.

With so many people already affected by the end of the summer, the U.S. government purchased $1.5 billion worth of H1N1 vaccinations, including nasal sprays, shots, and associated supplies, supposedly enough for the country. These were dispersed on state and local levels, leaving the distribution and recompense of doctor visits up to the state. According to Michael Bloomberg’s office, New York would be offering free immunizations to elementary schools as well as close to 100 health clinics. An estimated 1.4 million public and private school students would receive this vaccination. In the words of Bloomberg: “We are going to make sure we take care of our people first, than figure out how to pay for it later.”

As a parent, it is important to ask essential questions like: What vaccination is your child being given? Exactly what ingredients does it contain? Also, doctors are saying that children are able to get H1N1 vaccines and then also get regular influenza shots shortly (days) after. But just because a child can physically handle getting a number of shots in a small amount of time does not necessarily mean it’s a good idea. Waiting between shots to assure there are no major short-term side effects would be strongly advised.

Here’s another interesting fact, that you’ve probably never heard of, regarding H1N1 vaccinations: The U.S. government has indemnified the companies producing these vaccines, alleviating negative repercussions in the event of any injuries or deaths that might arise in relation to the formulas. While certain people, because of their profession, may be forced to receive the H1N1 vaccine, most of us have a choice. Do your research. Examine your options. Exercise responsibility. Choose for yourself.

If you don’t want the vaccination, remember that the H1N1 flu is spread much like the seasonal flu. Regular precautionary steps can be taken to avoid contamination. For example, if you cough or sneeze, cover your mouth with a tissue and dispense the tissue after use. Wash your hands frequently, especially after coughing or sneezing. If you are unable to wash your hands, use alcohol-based (antibacterial) cleaners. Avoid touching objects right before touching your eyes, mouth, or nose, since germs can be spread by contaminated respiratory droplets left on items. Influenza virus can survive on surfaces up to 8 hours after being deposited, so the best deterrent to getting sick is staying focused on precautionary steps. Avoid contact with those that are sick, and if you experience flu-like symptoms, the CDC recommends you keep away from public areas.

Further information regarding general questions and concerns associated with the H1N1 flu should be raised with your doctor and discussed at length. And with all the attention it’s received and plenty of writing being done about it, the Internet is always a good place to start your research. To get you on your way, check out this article on Bloomberg.com about understanding H1N1’s spread and frequently asked questions you’ll want answered.

Holly Mazzone is enthralled to be a part of The Vigilant Monkey. After researching all angles of the H1N1 vaccination, she will not be receiving it this year and hopes to avoid all types of sickness in general.