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<h4 class="dechead">On One Hand: Saves Lives
Flu shots change each year. The 2009 H1N1 vaccine has been credited with dramatically reducing the risk of serious illness and death in high-risk populations such as pregnant women. According to the CDC, the injectable form of the vaccine contains only attenuated (killed) viruses that cannot cause an infection, and side effects have been mild.
On the Other: Potential Complications
The CDC acknowledges that, when a similar vaccine for swine flu was administered in 1976, there was a slight increase in the incidence of Guillain-Barre syndrome, an autoimmune disorder that causes muscle weakness and paralysis. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is aware of this risk and has implemented surveillance systems to watch for GBS or severe allergic reactions following H1N1 shots.
Bottom Line
According to the CDC, "The 2009 H1N1 influenza vaccines are showing similar safety profiles as seasonal flu vaccines, which have very good safety records. Millions of people have safely received the H1N1 vaccine."
Source:
Centers for Disease Control: General Questions and Answers on 2009 H1N1 Influenza Vaccine Safety
American Medical News: H1N1 Vaccine To Be Tracked for Safety Concerns
Centers for Disease Control: H1N1 Flu Vaccine Safety
More Information:
information on Influenza A (H1N1) 2009 Monovalent Vaccine Safety
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