By This past week my hospital received its first shipment of H1N1 nasal vaccine for employees. It was given on a voluntary basis to those employees that meet the recommended qualifications. I fell into that category, but chose to decline. I am really on the fence about the whole thing.
My wife had it about a month ago, she was very, very sick, but nothing more than flu-like signs and symptoms that just drug on for a about a week. I have also had several patients on my unit and staff members that have gotten sick, and have been extremely ill, in fact one of my nurses was hospitalized for a couple of days.
But, still I am not sure if I really want it. I know that physicians say that it is safe to receive the vaccine, but since it just came out of human trials, I am concerned about the long term effects. In my mind I am wondering, is the risk of long term effects worth the risk for just a severe flu…..I don’t know.
Now my staff is coming to me for advice. I really don’t know what to tell them. I say, to do what you think is best for you and your family. I have to tell them that I have decided that I am not going to get it at this time, but if they feel it is safe and will keep them well, then they should get it. I would probably tell my patients to get it as well.
Anyway….while I am trying to make a decision, I am feeling sick today. Sore throat, cough, malaise….so, while I have been trying to figure it out, I am getting sick. Guess I should have gotten it while I had the chance.
