I am allergic to thimerosal, which will be in the H1N1 vaccine. What can I take to prevent the swine flu and the seasonal flu?
The good news is that it is anticipated that enough thimerosal-free vaccine in pre-loaded syringes will be available for young children and pregnant women. Talk with your doctor in advance of the arrival of the vaccines to alert him or her about your need for a thimerosal-free vaccine.
Only you and your health care provider can determine your risk and what the most appropriate precautions are for you.
There are important things you can do to avoid catching the flu:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hands cleaners are also effective. (Also, see our Handwashing video.)
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it. No tissue available? Cough into your sleeve or elbow, not your hands.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.
- Kill flu viruses with effective household cleaners. To prevent the spread of influenza virus it is important to keep surfaces (especially bedside tables, surfaces in the bathroom, kitchen counters and toys for children) clean by wiping them down with a household disinfectant according to directions on the product label. Influenza virus is destroyed by heat (167-212°F [75-100°C]). In addition, several chemical germicides, including chlorine, hydrogen peroxide, detergents (soap), iodophors (iodine-based antiseptics), and alcohols are effective against human influenza viruses if used in proper concentration for a sufficient length of time.
Follow the advice of your local public health department regarding measures to avoid the flu.
Last Updated: 08/13/2009
Related Questions:
- I have concerns about the use of thimerosal. Is thimerosal still being used?
- What is the difference between a vaccine and an antiviral?
- Is thimerosal safe when used as a preservative in vaccines?
- Does the 2009 H1N1 influenza vaccine contain thimerosal?
- Does the nasal spray flu vaccine contain thimerosal?
