To get the flu vaccine or not?

6 replies

DaleyBump · 11/09/2013 03:20

I've just had my whooping cough vaccine and should be getting the flu vaccine next month. I'm 28+4.

I'm not anti vac, I just like to do my research before I get vaccinated and I just don't see any point in getting the flu vaccine - the virus changes so much that the vaccine would be almost pointless.

I would love to have other people's views on this before I decide completely one way or the other.

OP posts:

luxemburgerli · 11/09/2013 04:52

I'll be interested to read this one too - I'm 21 weeks and considering the vaccine after getting flu for the first time last year. I don't know much about the recommendations (or not) for pregnant women, but I wanted to point out that the vaccine is most definitely not pointless just because the virus changes fast (I am a biologist).

The (inactive) viruses in the vaccine are largely based on predictions about how the virus will change, with new predictions every year. There is a very good success rate with the predictions, which is why massive flu outbreaks are rare.

So assuming the vaccine is safe for pregnant women (again, I stress I know very little about that side of things!), it is definitely worth it.

plentyofsoap · 11/09/2013 07:38

I'm going to get it as I'm at high risk of having a pre term birth and if I get it I will be a danger to a small baby. I have had it a few times as I work with the general public and had no reaction and it works. The year I didn't get it I got flu and was really poorly which was not fun when you have a little one to look after.

roofio87 · 11/09/2013 08:41

in terms of pregnancy, I am due in 3 weeks so will wait till after birth to get vaccine as it only becomes available just before my due date.
but in general I think its good. I have it every year anyway and last year was the only one out of the 6 in my work team not to get flu.

Lovecookies · 11/09/2013 09:01

I can't wait to get it, we all had flu over Xmas/ new year last year and I don't want another Xmas like it, just wish there was a vaccine for the norovirus

Original poster

DaleyBump · 11/09/2013 11:52

This is interesting, thank you :)

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MummyJetsetter · 11/09/2013 19:04

I haven't had it, I decided not to based on the fact I've never once had it before. Touch wood! x

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