Since I did my last post on the swine flu vaccine and kids with special needs, it's been on my mind all the time. Or, at least when I have time to actually think.
Last week, I asked our pediatrician whether he thought Max should get the vaccine. He left me a voicemail at work: "Yes, Max should get the swine flu vaccine, he's in the high-risk category."
Yesterday, I had a conversation with Max's neurologist. He explained that although having cerebral palsy puts Max in the high-risk category, that risk is mainly for anyone with cp who has breathing issues or compromised respiration—neither of which Max has. He acknowledged it was a tough choice, but said that he thinks the vaccine is too untested. And he said he wouldn't do it. Not for Sabrina, either. Or me or Dave. He did say I should tell Max's teachers that if anyone in his class gets it, they should let me know so I can keep him home.
I've been reading up on the swine flu vaccine debacle back in the '70s; cases of Guillain-Barre syndrome, a paralyzing nerve disease, were linked to it; Time had a good piece on it. I also read that The Obama administration is legally protecting anyone who distributes, prescribes or administers the H1N1 vaccine in an article by The Canadian Press (who's decided to shield drug companies from lawsuits).
As of tonight, I am leaning toward not getting Max the swine flu vaccine. And I am scared.
Photo by Feeling Croppy
