UPDATE 8/17/10:

SEASONAL INFLUENZA VACCINE

We are waiting for shipping confirmation from our influenza vaccine manufacturers before offering influenza vaccine appointments.

CONTINUE TO WATCH THIS SPACE FOR UPDATES.  WE WILL POST UPDATES HERE AS SOON AS WE HAVE MORE INFORMATION.  Our telephone staff will not have any information sooner than will be posted in this space, so PLEASE keep checking this space instead of calling the office for information.  The FAQs below have been updated.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) 2010-2011 Influenza vaccine:

Q:  Who should NOT receive Influenza vaccine?

A:  Children under 6 months old, children who are allergic to eggs, and children who have had allergic reactions in the past to influenza vaccine or its components.

Q:  My child has an egg allergy.  Can he/she still get the vaccine at Lower Bucks Pediatrics?

A:  No.  For the safety of our patients, our practice policy states that we do not give flu vaccine to children who are egg allergic.  We also do not give out doses to families to take to an Allergist for administration since we can not assure proper handling and administration of the vaccine.

Q:  Does my child require a separate H1N1 vaccine this year?

A:  No because the H1N1 influenza strain will be included in this year's seasonal Influenza vaccine.

Q:  Will the vaccine contain preservative?

A:  No.  ALL OF THE 2010-2011 INFLUENZA VACCINE BEING OFFERED BY LOWER BUCKS PEDIATRICS IS PRESERVATIVE-FREE.  This change is not a result of any concerns about the safety or effectiveness of vaccine with preservative.  Instead, we are transitioning to all prefilled syringes (which happen to be preservative-free) in order to minimize wait times during appointments.

Q:  Will I have to pay out of pocket for the vaccine?
A:  If your child has active medical insurance, Lower Bucks Pediatrics will bill the child's medical insurance once the vaccination is given.  YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY COPAY, COINSURANCE, OR NON-COVERED CHARGE FOR THE VACCINATION, INCLUDING INACTIVE OR INCORRECT INSURANCE INFORMATION IN OUR SYSTEM.  If your child has new insurance, YOU MUST CALL THE OFFICE PRIOR TO YOUR FLU CLINIC APPOINTMENT TO UPDATE THE INFORMATION or you will be expected to pay the entire cost of the vaccine and administration.