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Shot or mist for kids with sickle cell?

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TBO.com

Published: October 30, 2009

Q. Is the swine flu shot or the swine flu nasal mist best for children under 18 who have sickle cell trait? Also my 8 year old has sickle cell trait and has to take a monthly shot for allergies to dust mites. Which swine flu option is better, the swine flu shot or the swine flu nasal mist? Also is it true that children under the age of 10 need to have a second dose of the swine flu vaccination? How much time should be between the 1st vaccination and the 2nd vaccaination for children under the age of 10? Thanks.

- Angie, Winter Springs

A. It's important that you are vaccinated against the flu in order to prevent complications from influenza. Based on your question, either vaccine would be appropriate, however, it's best that you consult your doctor.

In general, seasonal flu vaccine for children 6 months to 8 years old should come in two doses separated by at least four weeks. This applies to children who are receiving influenza vaccine for the first time or who failed to receive the second dose in the preceding year.

Do you have a question or comment about swine flu that isn't being addressed?

Helping us track it all down is the Hillsborough County Health Department, which, like us, draws much of its information from the very helpful Web sites of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

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