Swine Flu Advice for Pregnant Women and New Moms

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As a pregnant woman expecting in January, I am disturbed by the media bombardment & use of fear to encourage pregnant women to receive the H1N1 vaccine. They have released little information, asking us to trust them, but this is a new type of flu (as it is each year....) and the risks of the vaccinations are not yet known. I have no intention of being a guinea pig, nor allowing my unborn child to be a guinea pig to see how this new vaccine effects a "fetus". Furthermore, why has the CDC and other prominent agencies not put out guidelines or suggestions for those who have a lower risk of coming in contact with this flu? Surely there are many persons at higher risk, due to their lifestyle/workplace who could possibly benefit by receiving the H1N1 and seasonal flu vaccines. I am not in a common workforce, in a big, non-ventilated office (thankfully), but if my health and that of my childs depended on me dropping out of society for a few months & maintaining a healthier than average immune system and careful hygiene habits, that's what I'll be doing through the "flu" season. Shame on the government agencies for adding fear to the mind of pregnant women and their families.

Meredith Sullivan of PA 8:12AM August 28, 2009

I am pregnant and just found out my 3 year old has swine flu. I have been advised to avoid direct contact with him for 1 week from when he began taking the tamiflu dose. I just would like guidance on how I could see him without endangering my unborn child and myself. I is very difficult to hear your child crying your name and you cannot go to him. Thanks.

Jameela of NC 7:41AM August 28, 2009

One of the best ways to avoid the flu is to optimize Vitamin D levels. In addition, doing this is vitally important to pregnant woman for a host of other reasons. Learn life saving information through the vitamin D council or simply google vitamin D. I do not understand why the US government, media, medical profession etc. are so slow to embrace the concept of vitamin D benefits. Interestingly enough Canada is ahead of the US in this regard.
http://www.vitamindcouncil.org

Paula Wolfe of MA 12:18AM August 28, 2009