Question About 9 Month Old Shots

Neither of my children were given any immunizations at 9 months. I think they had their fingers pricked for a drop of blood, but that was it. It could be time for one of her Hepatitis immunizations, but I would be surprised if she was given the MMR today -- I think the recommended timeframe on MMR is 12-15 months. (My kids got theirs at 15 months).

Regarding the flu shot, ask about any possible interaction side effects (if she receives other injections). I think the only threat from the flu shot comes if it is given when the child already has a fever or is having wheezing/breathing problems. But check with your Pediatrician.

My advice is to have a frank, open conversation with your Pediatrician about immunizations (MMR) today so that you have the science side of information before you make your decision in the next few months. Personally, I'm pro-immunization, as there has been no scientific base to the alarmist views on MMR. But it doesn't matter what I think -- only you can decide what is right for your children!!

My baby just had her 9 month check up, and there were no other shots scheduled, so we did her flu shot (no problems). MMR should be done after 12 months of age.

I was just reading today how helpful taking vitamin D can be for preventing flu during the winter (as good as or better than flu shot). It makes sense if you think about it, all spring and summer we get plenty of vitamin D from the sun, then in the fall/winter we get a lot less sun and a bunch of people get the flu! There are other things you can do to boost her immune system as well. Anyway, just thought I'd pass the info since you're thinking about giving your daughter the flu shot.

As far as your question, I say better safe than sorry. That sounds like a lot of shots and I would at least space them out. Actually, it just occured to me, why is she getting the MMR at 9 months? That seems early. The earliest I've ever heard of it is 12 months.

I hope I've been helpful and not just confusing. I would also recommend you get The Vaccine Book by Dr. Sears. I found it incredibly helpful. Good Luck!

Hi J.,

I was just going back to posts, while you received some nice advice, there is another wonderful book called Mother Daughter Wisdome by Dr. Christine Northrup, OB/GYN, she talks about raising daughters from birth to adult years. She discusses emotional, mental, physical developments through each stage and how to address those growing issues and needs with girls. I've read the first section a few months ago and it was great. She has an excellent section on vaccines discussing both sides, however, I have read in two different books, including hers that if you decide to vaccinate and if b-feeding, to up your Vitamin C uptake to 3g or 3000mg per day, 5 days prior to the shots and 5 days after the shots to help boost immunity. There is also a liquid Vitamin C for babies over 6m by ChildLife that you can give to her in a bottle. Just follow the instructons on the bottle.

The Vaccine Book is another good book as one mom suggested and read the vitamin C intake in there as well. Afterall, upping our Vitamin C during cold/flu season is not a bad idea for everyone as well as probiotics.

Best,
J.