Flu jabs for all children

[munstersmum]

Health advisors are suggesting all children should be vaccinated against flu as a public health measure. Older children could be done through a schools-based programme. Pre-schoolers at the doctors. It is thought that 1 elderly person's life may be saved for about each 420 kids vaccinated .

Read the official statement here bit.ly/tGXXdF

But not happening this year?

Wow that will cost!!

I tried to get the flu vaccine for our DS3, as everyone else (except me) in the house has already been advised to get it. They said no, even though they admitted children can be particularly vulnerable to flu.

2 boys No, not this year. Statement says towards the end there is more detail to be established.

Sara It will cost but the theory is less than lots of elderly folk being hospitalised.

SaraSidle I imagine they're only considering it because they're taking into account all the money it could save the NHS.

They do it in America apparently.

DD1 will still refuse hers (she's on the list because she has mild asthma) it makes her feel ill for a week.
Pity because I think it's a great idea given how horribly scary it was when she got flu as a toddler.
She a strapping 13 year old now

Yes, Sandalwood when we lived in the states, the entire family got their flu shot every year. It was highly recommended for all children to get it.

The likelihood of my child getting flu is not that great, I'd rather not inject him with mercury thank you, nor would I take up the jab myself if it was offered to me.

Do the current flu jabs have thimersol in them?
I'd like it for DS2 who is prone to being respy, the other DC would cope okay either way, but good thing for DS2 (and DH who is prone to respiratory things, too).

No you can get ones that are safe, but I doubt the NHS will give you the choice, the dodgy ones are cheaper.