To all of those worried a flu shot will make their ferret sick:
The vaccinations used today are not live viruses.  Usually, a piece of
the protein coat ( without viral DNA) is what is used.  This small fragment
of the virus ellicits a small immune response that makes antibodies so
that if you do come in contact with the influenza virus, you will be able
to fight it off more easily.  If you get sick after a vaccination, it is
because you were already exposed to the virus.  It take a couple of weeks
for the vaccinations to have full effect.  I hope this helps some of you
rest easily!
 
Kristin
[Posted in FML issue 3461]