SAN ANTONIO -- The vaccine for the H1N1 virus will be available soon. But, at least one prominent physician is saying not so fast.
Many parents are trying to decide whether to immunize their children against the H1N1 virus (aka swine flu). Although officials with the CDC and San Antonio Metro Health are recommending children and young people get the vaccine as soon it's available, some parents are concerned about its safety.
News 4 WOAI's Leslie Bohl Jones spoke with Dr. Mehmet Oz of "The Dr. Oz Show" about the H1N1 vaccine. He says he is not ready to recommend it.
"I don't want to make a commitment on that until we see the final data," Dr. Oz told News 4 WOAI.
That final data should be compiled by the end of the month. Until then, Dr. Oz, a father of four, agrees with some parents' hesitations.
Initial clinical trials do show the H1N1 vaccine is safe. But Dr. Oz believes more study needs to be done.
A lot of people remember what happened back in the 1970's when more people died from the vaccine or complications from the vaccine than from the actual illness. So, a lot of people are a little nervous.
"And, that's a good reason why people should hold off until we have more information," Dr. Oz added.
Dr. Oz wants all parents to stay calm and be prepared.
"You've got to think of this like a hurricane warning," explained Dr. Oz. "We're not saying, 'Panic! Bad things are happening.' Something is coming at us. You can choose how you respond."
One thing Dr. Oz does recommend is the seasonal flu shot or mist. It is something every parent should get for his or her child.
