With nearly all 50 states reporting widespread flu activity and young children being among those most susceptible to serious complications from the H1N1 virus, some parents want to get their children vaccinated and are frustrated by the scarce supply of the vaccine. Other parents are just as worried about their children contracting “swine flu”, but are also concerned about the safety and efficacy of the vaccine. What happens when parents on different sides of this issue are parenting the same child?
As with other major, child-related issues for parents with shared custody, whether to vaccinate or not must be made as a joint decision. Stumped as to how to talk to your ex about the H1N1 vaccine? Here are some suggestions for facilitating the conversation:
*Listen as much as you talk. Each parent’s questions, concerns, and opinions need to be addressed in order for an agreement to be reached.
*Do your homework about H1N1 and the pros and cons of the vaccine.
*Consult your child’s pediatrician together.
*Ask yourself, “How would we have handled this if we were still together?”
*The vaccine question aside, discuss flu prevention measures, such as frequent hand-washing, that you can each take in your respective households to promote good health during flu season.
*Most importantly, remember that this is not the time to grind the ax of your grown-up conflicts. Stick to the matter at hand: Your child’s health and best interests.
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