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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Are The H1N1 And Immunization Vaccinations Needed Prior To A Trip?

This is regarding my two year old son. We will be traveling out of India early next month and my concern is regarding protecting him from H1N1 fever during and after the long journey. Is there a vaccination available that he can be administered before we travel, if so, how much ahead of our travel should it be given. What is the degree of protection that it will provide? His immunization schedules are up to date, however he hasn't had any influenza vaccinations till date, should we administer this too before we travel? Thank you for your time and consideration.
posted on Thu, 13 Mar 2014
Twitter Thu, 18 Sep 2014 Answered on
Twitter Fri, 19 Sep 2014 Last reviewed on
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Pediatrician,  's  Response
Hi, I had gone through your question and understand your concerns.

Yes , flu vaccines like Vaxigrip, Agripal are available to vaccinate your baby.

Flu vaccines cause antibodies to develop in the body about two weeks after vaccination , so it is recommended to get vaccine at least 2 weeks before travel , and get a booster shot after 1-2 months of Ist dose , thereafter a single shot every year as long as protection required.

You should get him vaccinated before travel .

Regarding degree of protection it is not straight forward as it depends on a number of factor, like body's response to vaccine , similarity between circulating strains of influenza virus, and vaccine strain , roughly there is 70-75 percent reduction in hospitalization due to flu in vaccinated individuals.

Moreover , all persons in family getting vaccinated in family is an additional protection for child.

Hope this answers your question. If you have additional questions then please do not hesitate in writing to us.
Wishing you and your child good health.
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What Are The H1N1 And Immunization Vaccinations Needed Prior To A Trip?

Hi, I had gone through your question and understand your concerns. Yes , flu vaccines like Vaxigrip, Agripal are available to vaccinate your baby. Flu vaccines cause antibodies to develop in the body about two weeks after vaccination , so it is recommended to get vaccine at least 2 weeks before travel , and get a booster shot after 1-2 months of Ist dose , thereafter a single shot every year as long as protection required. You should get him vaccinated before travel . Regarding degree of protection it is not straight forward as it depends on a number of factor, like body s response to vaccine , similarity between circulating strains of influenza virus, and vaccine strain , roughly there is 70-75 percent reduction in hospitalization due to flu in vaccinated individuals. Moreover , all persons in family getting vaccinated in family is an additional protection for child. Hope this answers your question. If you have additional questions then please do not hesitate in writing to us. Wishing you and your child good health.