Is anyone else having trouble getting flu shots for their toddlers?

Question

I live in Ohio and am on Ohio Medicaid (Amerigroup) for my 4 yr old. I was told by his pediatrician to call the office towards the end of October to schedule a flu shot. When I called two weeks ago- I was told the shots for 'kids on state insurance' were gone. Apparently the state only sends out a few for these kids. So I asked what else I could do, and they said to call the health department. I did that and was told they don't get shots for kids until the end of November! My boy has serious breathing problems and needs a shot. I hear they are so plentiful this year and yet I can't find one for my son- even when I try to pay out of pocket! Other dr's offices say he has to be a patient there already to get one this year. I am so frustrated I don't know what the do. Anyone else having this problem, or do you have any suggestions?

I don't buy into the idea that the shot is unhealthy. I've read the literature on both sides of the issue, and i'm going to vaccinate this kid. So saying 'don't do it' is pointless to me. I want answers on how I can get it done, and that's all!
Thanks to everyone so far!

Answer 1

I feel for you, I think that's totally wrong for them to only have a limited amount of vaccine for those on state insurance. That's just pathetic.

My children got theirs a couple of days ago.

I'd have a chat with the office manager, tell him/her that you were told to call at the end of October and that your son needs the shot b/c of being high-risk and that you have nowhere else to go.

I wish you all the best. As for the person who stated that flu shots are not appropriate for toddlers, that's not true. My kids received them as toddlers since my daughter is on the high-risk scale herself. I'm glad that you want to immunize your son, being that he has the breathing problems.

I should have mentioned, and am glad that the other person did, about the public flu shot programs that are offered during this time of year. Our local supermarket even holds them. As the other person stated, check the news, check the paper... they are still being held.

Answer 2

I didn't have a problem getting them for either of my children. We just walked into their doctor's office and the float nurse was able to administer the shots a few minutes later. Keep checking around, there should be plenty available--especially if you're able to pay out of pocket (it's about $18 here in Idaho). Call Costco, your local hospital, your personal doctor, and all the other pediatricians in town (and surrounding towns if necessary). Also watch your local news and browse the newspaper to see if there are public vaccination times being offered.

Answer 3

I live in PA and did not have a problem getting one for my daughter. We took her to her 2 yr visit and she got her flu shot with her other vac. and that was a little over a week ago. What part of Ohio are you in? Drive to PA our local supermart has a clinic coming up.

Answer 4

yes, I feel for you I sure hope they stay healthy this winter In arkansas they aren't scheduling them until november at my docs office. I will be the first in line too! with all the kids I have it spreads like wildfires and I can't afford to take time off of work.

Answer 5

Flu shots are not appropriate for toddlers. Many of the substances in the shot are potentially harmful. Someone may correct me, but I do believe flu shots still contain mercury. The amount may be ok for an adult, but surely woulds have potential harm for a little one.

Answer 6

He doesn't need it!!!! There is mercury in the shot, and that is not safe!!! There is also fomaldehyde. Even if he gets the flu shot, it doesn't mean he won't get the flu. There are waiver forms that you can sign. If I were you, I would skip the shot. They are not as good as people think.