Worried about Mercury in the Flu Vaccine?

The question of thimerisol (mercury) in the influenzia vaccine has again popped up. Should any rational person be worried? In one word...no.

When one thinks of mercury, the element often found in fish comes to mind. This is chemically methylmercury. How often do you (or your Feline-American companion) eat a 3 oz. can of tuna? Whenever you consume this canned fish, you're orally consuming the same amount of mercury found in one dose of the flu vaccine. 

But wait...the mercury found in the flu shot is ethylmercury, not at all the same thing as methylmercury. The two types of mercury have been laboratory tested in apes with interesting results. For those worried about any chemical residue in the body, only one-third the amount of ethylmercury (usually administered by injection) is retained in comparison to methylmercury (usually taken orally).

Then we have critics who point out that the mercury in the flu vaccine is twice that allowed in drinking water. Yes, that statement is true. Think .5 ml total liquid in the once a year flu shot and the 237 ml in one eight ounce glass of water, presumably drunk daily. 

Do your own research before you accept the mindless and useless figures spouted by the anti-vaxxers.

Nurse Nan

No Stuffed Animals in the Hospital?

What should you take a child in the hospital? That would depend on the child, but we can certainly say what not to take: Large stuffed animals. These stuffed creations look so cute in the gift shop, but in the hospital room much less so.

I've heard some visitors say, "Oh, but they make the child happy." Yes, they do, for a few hours until their pain returns or they begin to feel so much better their only interest is getting dressed and going home. Then the toys are relegated to a corner to take up much needed room or, even worse, set on the floor where they become a hazard in emergencies. Once the child is ready to leave the hospital, the stuffed animal becomes something Mom or Dad has to tote to the car and then find room for at home.

One of the best presents to take a child in the hospital is an activity or pop-up book. They take up little space when folded and are easily transported home to enjoy over and over. Depending on the circumstances, taking some coffee or sandwiches to a waiting parent can be a very much appreciated gift.

With flu season about to start, we hope none of your children becomes ill. Remember to call your physician as soon as possible to set up a vaccination appointment for your whole family.

Nurse Nan

You're Going to Give Me a Shot Where?

Due to a local physician having some problems at his office, we've had several questions concerning just who's who at the doctor's. Here's the run down of what type personnel you will usually find:

Physician - either a Medical Doctor or an Osteopath
Physician's Assistant - these are licensed and usually possess a Master's Degree
CRNP - these highly trained nurses are licensed and also usually possess a Master's Degree
RN - professional nurses; there are currently four kinds practicing in the state, but all have the same legal status
LPN - trade nurses that are called LVNs in some states
Medical Assistant - these are not licensed, do the basics, and do not usually administer injections
Phlebotomist - personnel trained in drawing blood, found in larger offices

If you have any doubt about who is assisting your physician or administering vaccinations, etc., feel free to ask. All competent personnel will be glad to answer your questions concerning their credentials.

The Alabama Department of Health is mounting a campaign for massive vaccinations this fall. Without vaccinations, their estimate is 30% of the state's population will contract swine flu. The vaccine should be available here in early to mid October.

And just where should you get your injection? We've actually had a question about this, and the answer is it depends. Some injections need to be given in a large muscle, usually in the buttock. Untrained personnel can easily injure the sciatic nerve while administering these injections--one big reason to ask who's who if you aren't sure.

If you take frequent injections that don't require a large muscle, standard protocol is to administer the medicine subcutaneously, avoiding the muscle; however, if you receive minimal injections each year, don't hesitate to ask for the shots to be given in the deltoid where less pain and soreness result.

Again, we urge everyone to begin making plans for this year's flu shot. Shots are no fun, but neither is the flu, and we don't want to lose any readers.

Wishing you good health,

Nurse Nan