Health Tips and Vaccine Safety with Lauren Feder, M.D.

Lauren Feder, M.D. is a physician, homeopath, lecturer, and writer. Her website, www.drfeder.com is a content rich homeopathic resource. DrFeder.com includes homeopathic and natural parenting information, remedies, books and videos. She is in private practice in Beverly Hills, California where she specializes in homeopathic medicine for children and adults. Lauren is the mother of two boys.

Disclaimer: The medical opinions stated here are for educational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for informed medical advice. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease without consulting with a qualified health care provider.

Question:

Can my non-vaccinated baby get a disease by being around other babies who were recently vaccinated? (Such as polio, chickenpox, measles, etc.) How diligent should I be about asking other moms if their kids were recently vaccinated?

Answer:

This is certainly a concern with many parents, some of whom have vaccinated their children as well as parents who have not vaccinated their children. The Oral Polio Vaccine was recently discontinued because the majority of paralytic polio cases were caused by exposure to the poliovirus that appeared in the feces of recently vaccinated children. Although the numbers were small, it certainly was reason for concern.

Vaccinations can weaken the immune system and a child who is susceptible can get sick after being vaccinated. Fortunately it is not that common to become sick with the specific illnesses following a recent shot. In my office practice, if a child does become ill after a vaccine, it is usually a cold, cough or flu. Any of these illnesses are contagious.

Your question regarding how diligent should one be about asking other moms if their kids were recently vaccinated, is a personal choice. As a parent of 2 unvaccinated boys, I followed the rule that I didn't want my children to be playing with other children who were obviously sick and didn't feel well. Children who are sick should be at home, and cared for in a quiet environment.

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