Should Everyone Get A Flu Shot?

Should everyone get a flu shot? The flu season is upon us and many people are debating as to whether or not to get the flu shot. This year it is also a bigger decision to make as the vaccine is a combination of the AH3N2 virus, an influenza virus, as well as the H1N1 swine flu virus.

Getting the vaccination is no guarantee that you won’t catch the flu virus. It is estimated that it is 70% effective in preventing the flu and if you do get it, your effects are lessened. People who have Chronic Fatigue Syndrome who already suffer daily with aches and fatigue will take months to recover if they get the flu.

What actually is influenza?

What actually is influenza, and why should I be concerned? Influenza is a very contagious virus. It comes on suddenly and brings with it a fever as high as 100-104 degrees Fahrenheit. Other symptoms include headache, sore throat, cough, chills, aches, and fatigue. It can last in healthy people for 4-7 days. In those who have other health issues, it can last much longer. It takes over 70,000 deaths a year and is a leading cause of death in the elderly.

The best time to receive the vaccination is October to November because most people get the flu during winter months, but getting vaccinated will still be beneficial in later months. It takes about 2 weeks for the vaccine to become effective and a new vaccination must be given each year as this is an ever changing virus.

If I decide to get a flu shot, are there any age limitations or restrictions?

Everyone 6 months and older is allowed to get vaccinated, but there are restrictions. Some children under nine years of age require 2 doses, but older children and adults need only one. It is administered in either arm.

Some of these restrictions include:

Does any special group really need a flu shot or is it just an extra preventative measure?

There are people in high risk groups who should consider getting vaccinated. These are people older than 65, people with underlying chronic diseases, pregnant women in their third trimester during the flu season, people living in close proximity to others, such as dorms or nursing homes, teachers and day care providers, and people with suppressed immune systems. If you are allergic to eggs, you should not get vaccinated YOU SHOULD NOT get vaccinated as eggs are used in the vaccine production.

Will I have a reaction to the vaccination?

There should be very little reaction. Some people get a sore arm or mild aches and pain or a low grade fever for a day or two following the vaccination. Most patients are not affected in any way.

Now that I have heard all the reasons to get it, what are the potential risks?

There are several studies that say the value of receiving the shot is exaggerated. Time off from work and hospital stays are not reduced (British Medical Journal). The Lancet (considered by many as the oldest and most respected general medical journal) found that even though the number of vaccinations in adults increased, the number of deaths as a result of the flu did not decrease. Evidence is starting to show that Alzheimer’s disease may be caused by the flu shots due to the combination of formaldehyde, aluminum, and mercury. There are sometimes adverse reactions which include joint inflammation and bizarre behavior with people being treated with tamiflu.

What should I do if I get a severe reaction?

• Signs of severe reactions include hoarseness, wheezing, hives, difficulty breathing and a fast heartbeat. If these occur call your doctor right away.
• What are my other options?
• Take preventative measures to stop germs from spreading.
• Wash your hands thoroughly, top and bottom for 20 seconds with soap. If no soap is available,
• Use alcohol wipes.
• When sneezing or coughing use a tissue and promptly throw it in the trash. If no tissue is available, sneeze into your arm.
• Keep hands away from your face.
• Avoid sick people.
• If you do get sick, stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever, and try to stay away from others.
• Antiviral drugs are available from your doctor which will make your illness milder and shorter, but they have to be started early in the illness.

It’s Your Decision

In the final analysis, your decisions will be based on you as an individual. It is, of course, too difficult to generalize for any individual. Consider your general health and health history. If you are still uncertain, discuss this with your doctor to decide what is the best decision for you to make.