To state the obvious, one goes up your nose, the other gets injected in to your body. But, there are other differences in the new Swine Flu vaccines that you should be aware about, especially if you are pregnant like me.
First, the nasal spray is made with the live virus. It is the more “natural” form of the vaccine because it goes up your nose, just like the way you contract the flu. However, because it is alive, it may cause more flu-like symptoms. The injection is made with virus proteins, meaning that there are no live germs swimming around in the vaccine.
Second, the shot is made with mercury. There are some with trace amounts and some with more than trace amounts. You can, however, find flu shots manufactured without any mercury.
Why do these things matter? Well, if you’re a healthy person who is not carrying a fetus, then these might not be a concern to you. But, for pregnant ladies, both live germs and mercury are HUGE concerns!
I, for one, am not rushing out to get the Swine Flu vaccine but will talk it over at length with my doctor to see what she has to say about the matter. If I know her, though, she will be very informed and answer all my questions and leave the decision to me…hence, my current obsession with this topic!
For more information on all sorts of questions related to the Swine Flu, check out askdrsears.com.
image credit: illuminating9_11
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{ 1 comment… read it below or add one }
I thought your article very thoughful and your conclusion wise.