Dr. Cunningham, who is leading the H1N1 efforts at Nationwide Children's, says that it's not an 100 percent guarantee these patients battling chronic conditions will not contract the H1N1 virus just by receiving immunization. He also suggests additional protection through what's called ring vaccination. The idea is to make sure there is a barrier of protection for all family members that are in direct and frequent contact with children taking immunosuppressant medication.

"It's also important for parents to put another layer of protection around their child and do so by making sure parents themselves and other children in the home receive the vaccine," said Dr. Cunningham, also on the faculty at The Ohio State University College of Medicine.

The caveat is that there is no assurance others outside the home will be vaccinated. Important measures like washing your hands, covering your cough and sneeze with your elbow, getting adequate amounts of sleep and plenty of fluids, and staying home from work or school when sick, are stressed and should be followed. Parents should always consult their child's pediatrician or primary care physician first for any and all questions about what's right for the child's health care needs.

Source: Epidemiology at Nationwide Children's Hospital