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This web-site is devoted to our patients and their families. It is intended to introduce you to our practice.

We hope you find the information contained within this site both helpful and educational.

The information contained within this website is for general purposes only.

It is not intended to substitute for physician directed care.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding your child, please don’t hesitate to contact our office.

Newtown Center Pediatrics, LLC

203- 426 - 3267

Inactivated Vaccines:  There are two main components of the flu virus:  the outer shell made of proteins, and the inner DNA/RNA structure that replicates and causes disease.  The vaccine is made from the inactive protein shell.  The body’s immune system reacts to this “antigen” and prevents the virus from replicating thereby preventing the flu.  Side effects of the vaccine include local tenderness, swelling, and low-grade fever.

Intranasal vaccines:  These are live but weakened (attenuated) viruses.  Their DNA/RNA is altered to prevent it from replicating rapidly.  The body’s immune system responds to the virus and produces antibodies which fend off the disease.  Because it is a live virus it can cause some mild flu-like symptoms including low-grade fever, runny nose, and mild cough.  In general, it is not recommended for those with asthma, unless preventative asthma medication is being taken regularly.

Seasonal and H1N1 vaccines:  Each year, a different protein “antigen” is developed for the seasonal flu (type A) vaccine.  The H1N1 vaccine, although new, contains only a variation of this antigen and is manufactured in the exact same manner as the seasonal flu vaccine.  Side-effects are almost identical to the seasonal flu vaccine above.  Again, the intranasal vaccine is a weakened (attenuated) virus.

Seasonal flu:  30-40,000 people die each year from complications due to influenza infection.  Millions are infected.  The illness can last two weeks with high fevers for much of it.  We highly recommend the seasonal vaccine for all children 6 months and older, as well as adolescents and young adults;  with special attention to those with asthma and other respiratory and immune conditions which place them in a high risk category.

H1N1 flu:  This is likely to be the more prevalent flu virus this year (type A) and  complications and degree of illness are much greater.  It is estimated that 1 in 100 people infected are hospitalized for complications, many of whom require critical or intensive care.  It is because of the extent of disease and the belief that the incidence will be higher that we recommend all children 6 months and older receive the vaccine when it becomes available.  Because it is a live virus, the intranasal vaccine may not be as desirable for many families.  We understand these reservations but encourage these families to receive the inactive (intramuscular) vaccine.

Yes, our staff, families, and children will be receiving (or have received) these vaccines.