flu shots & nursing

[Anonymous]

This is not a post for pro or against vaccinations, I just have a question about flu shots & nursing. My son is 6.5 months & I am nursing him. If I just get the shot, will he get the benefits through nursing? What if we both get the shot- will he be getting more immunity? Also-why do babies need to go back for a second dose? Did your baby have any reactions to the flu shot? Thanks again & please no immunization battles.

[Anonymous]

I would definitely talk to your Pediatrician about the specifics but the recommendation is for both Mom and babies to get the flu shot. I don't know why they have to have 2 shots but this seems to be standard practice the these days the 1st time a child gets the flu shot no matter what age.

[Anonymous]

I had the flu shot while nursing and my infant also had the 2 part shot.

The baby will receive some antibodies through nursing, but not nearly as many as by receiving the shot himself. Also, by 6.5 months, milk is most likely not his only source of nutrition, so he won't receive as many of your antibodies as if he were 3 months old.