[HthrRenee]

I received a voicemail from Superior/STAR Health yesterday afternoon stating that children over six months need the H1N1 vaccination and caregivers who have infants under six months need the vaccination themselves. I have a sixteen month old and her seven week old brother. When they came into care, she received the first of two shots for this year's regular flu strain. She is due to return on Monday for the second shot. I had not planned on getting her the swine flu vaccination, too, and her pediatrician agreed.

My friend's three year old daughter has a severe heart defect and both her heart doctor and pediatrician recommended against getting the shot to protect her. They also recommended against her two year old and all older housemembers as well.

Do foster parents in Texas HAVE to get the H1N1 vaccination for themselves and children in their care? I've left messages for my caseworker, but she has gone MIA lately.

[dachshunds4you]

I didn't get any messages yet. I don't plan to get one for myself or my kids. I personally don't think they can force us to get them, but maybe the kids, unless pedi's don't recommend.
I was at our AD's dr appt this weekend, and they asked if we wanted her to have it. I said no and they left it at that.

[skylark_25]

I got that same message. It wasn't just for foster parents but for anyone with kids on medicaid. I've heard nothing from CPS about the shot being manditory, and with the shortage of the vaccine I don't see how they can require it. I wouldn't worry about it unless the biofamily specifically asks about it or unless your child is at high risk b/c of other medical issues.

Becca

[Rev320ratjat]

I got that same message, but had already talked to our doctor about our 31 m/o getting the H1N1 and he said that their clinic is not giving it because they do not know enough about the adverse effects yet. He did get the nasal vaccination for the regular flu.

I do not believe that CPS is requiring it. I am following our doctor's orders.

[parenting-over-40]

I don't have a FC right now. Thus, I haven't received the call. However, my agency has told me to follow doctor's orders and get it in writing. I would verify this information with your CW.

I don't plan on my AD getting the shot due to the unknowns of the adverse effects (as pp stated).