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Expert Q&A
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| By Ann Calandro BSN, RNC, IBCLC Lactation Consultant | ||
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I am currently nursing my 3-month-old and would like to get a flu shot. I am somewhat at high risk due to asthma. I am 39 years old. Is it safe for my baby?
I always check with Dr. Thomas Hale's ""Medications and Mothers' Milk"" for questions of this nature. This is what Dr. Hale writes about the influenza virus vaccine in his 2000 edition. ""Influenza vaccine is prepared from inactivated, non-viable influenza viruses and infection of the neonate via the milk would not be expected. There are no reported side effects, nor published contraindications for using influenza virus vaccine during lactation."" Adult concerns: fever, myalgia; pediatric concerns: none reported in breastfeeding mothers. Hope this will be helpful in making your decision. Feel free to share it with your health care provider.
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