From:
kazpat1@juno.com
Date: 2003-11-06 04:42:10 UTC
Subject: Re: [ferrethealth] Flu shots vs. FluMist(TM)
To: ferrethealth@smartgroups.com
Message-Id: <20031105.204247.849.479398@webmail06.lax.untd.com>
I am not familar with the newer flu vaccine. But in the cases
of other attenutated live virus vaccines, this has been
a concern. I know with the measles vaccine HIV patients can
get the vaccine, only those with severe disease can't, or those on chemo. But the household members of those patients can get it.
The one I know for sure was the oral polio vaccine, the virus
could actually be shed in the stool of the vaccinated child,
and if that child was immunocompromised, or the adult taking
care of the child was, then polio could result-even though the chances
were low in this happening, It did happen enough that the recommendations are to only use the injectible polio now.
So, it may make a difference the way the live vaccine is given,
nasal, verses oral verses a shot.
Good question and since I work with immunocompromised patients,
it is a valid concern when their family members may be vaccinated
with this virus. I will look into it, if the contraindications
are having a family memeber with a compromised immune system,
then I would bet it can be a problem. But if this is not a contraindication to getting vaccinated, then I doubt it is a concern.
BTW, if it is a contraindication, makes me wonder how good an idea this
vaccine is, how many people dont' even know that a close family
member is immunocompromised, or think about those on long term
steroids for SLE, or asthma, or other medical problems.
patty
-- "
However, an alternative product, FluMist(TM) nasal spray, is made from
*live* (but weakened) virus. I understand that while it's safe for people
with healthy immune systems, there is concern about people who use this
product being able to pass the virus to others, possibly causing the flu if
the unlucky recipient has a compromised immune system, or other health
problems.
I'm loath to take the chance myself, but do any of the vets or others have
any thoughts on whether or not a FluMist user can pass the virus to ferrets?
Dan Muldoon, Ph.D.
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