
Flu Shot or Not?
I have never had a flu shot. Kind of always figured they were for the already vulnerable and elderly. I have also never given it to my kids and, well, they tend to get the flu every year and are miserable and get over it and move on just like I did when I was a kid.
But I have to admit I am starting to cave under the pressure of the media and all these weird and scary viruses emerging: swine, bird, brown bag…oh wait that one’s different. Anyway I went out in search of some good info on the subject and here is what I found:
On the CDC website, it talks immediately about the fact that the SEASONAL shot is different from the H1N1 (swine flu) shot and you can choose to get both this year! There is definitely more controversy around the H1N1 shot. Call me paranoid but I don’t really want to be the first to try out that vaccine.
After reading about the seasonal shot, I am still not convinced I need it. The CDC seems to communicate that it is really needed for people at “high risk of having serious seasonal flu related complications” so basically those with already compromised immune systems and every one else it’s sort of your choice, but a good idea. Flu does kill over 36,000 people each year, most over 65 though. What struck me as interesting are the possible side effects of the flu shot and flu mist:
• runny nose
• wheezing
• headache
• vomiting
• muscle aches
• fever
• cough
Um, isn’t that the flu?
According to the CDC when the flu shot is a “match” to the prominent circulating flu virus of the year, it is 70-90% effective in preventing the flu in most people. That sounds great! Of course it kind of begs the question how often is it a match, more often then not? I couldn’t find the answer. They are very adamant that NOONE can get the flu from the flu shot. If you do get sick it is because you were exposed to the virus shortly before the shot or during the 2 week period it takes for the vaccine to kick in.
This article from the Washington Post seemed quite pro shot and gave some good but maybe a bit sensational statistics. All in all I don’t walk away more convinced to get the shot. I am obviously a natural girl and like to allow nature to take its course. I can feel when I am getting run down and know that sleep, vitamins, lots of water and healthy food usually keep illness at bay for me (eating more raw food has absolutely kept me healthier). I fully realize that in a couple of weeks I may be laying in bed regretting these words but so far I am not a believer in the flu shot.
Let me know your thoughts though. Help me understand the other point of view. I am interested in hearing from my friends on this.
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