About 800,000 swine flu (H1N1) shots for children are being recalled because they aren’t quite strong enough. But CDC flu experts say there’s nothing to worry about – the vaccine is still safe.
The vaccine, made by Sanofi Pasteur, was distributed throughout the U.S. last month for children ages 6 months to 3 years, and many have already been used. But the company issued a voluntary recall after further testing showed the vaccines strength fell slightly below required levels. This means that the vaccine should have been more potent, but is still expected to be effective.
So even if your children did receive both doses from the recalled batch they don’t need to be vaccinated again, health officials said. If they haven’t, it’s still recommended that they complete the two-dose series.
While the vaccine can help protect you from the flu, it’s not a cure-all. Make sure your family continues to cover coughs, wash hands and stay healthy. Visit The Beehive for a great section on swine flu and some helpful tips to avoid it.
