Any ideas on whether it's best to get the flu vaccine or not? Did you get one th

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   Michelle Hawkinsposted 10 years ago

   Any ideas on whether it's best to get the flu vaccine or not? Did you get one this year?
   
   

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   ChristinSposted 10 years ago

   Flu shots are completely unnecessary and a way to use people's fears to make big money for the Pharmaceuticals.  The flu shot does not guarantee immunity from the flu - at best it is guess work, which means you are injecting your body with something that has a high likelihood of not working. Every year the strains mutate and if the vaccines get it wrong, well then you just pumped your body full of something else for it to fight that won't work anyway.  In fact, you just taxed your immune system by having the shot - so now the body has more things to fend off - not less.
   
   Instead, I would suggest taking natural steps to boost your immunity and take precautions.  Should you actually contract the flu a dose of the anti-viral Tamiflu is very effective for getting rid of the virus.  My son contracted the much feared "swine flu" a couple of years ago. We immediately called the doctor who gave him a scrip for Tamiflu and he was better in less than 24 hours.  Tamiflu is an anti-viral and IS effective.
   
   I never contract the flu anyway - I've had it once that I can remember and I have never taken a flu shot.  I also work to boost my immunity through the season with a healthy diet and supplements and if I feel sick I do society a favor and stay home.

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      Michelle Hawkinsposted 10 years agoin reply to this

      There's definitely a lot of hype behind it. I'm not convinced myself that it's what's best. You just have to weigh out the pros and cons and make the best decision for yourself. However when the virus is airborne, you can't always avoid it.

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   xanzacowposted 10 years ago

   I did get my influenza vaccine this year, only because I am forced to by my employer. Otherwise I would not. I have heard of many instances, this season in particular, where those who have been innocculated still caught the flu virus. Of course "they" say that those instances would have been a lot worse had they not been vaccinated. Whether it is best or not, who knows. If we never get sick how do we build up immunities? The flu shot is supposed to build your immunity to that particular strain. What are the chances you are going to get the flu anyways? Proper hygiene and strict handwashing should be all of the protection we need. Simple rules to follow. Wash hands frequently or at least use hand sanitizer after in a public place, do not touch your eyes, nose, or mouth until you have done so, and stay away from sick people! Great question!

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      Michelle Hawkinsposted 10 years agoin reply to this

      Great answer! Unfortunately though, when it's airborne, proper hygiene isn't always enough. Just one sneeze or cough can spread 20 feet worth of viruses to those around you. I definitely agree with you on the hand washing and sanitizer though.

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      xanzacowposted 10 years agoin reply to this

      Yes you are so right. A sneeze can linger in the air for hours! I guess we could wear masks!

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   lburmasterposted 10 years ago

   Never had the vaccine and never had the flu. So I think it's a bad idea to break that record by getting the shot.

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      Michelle Hawkinsposted 10 years agoin reply to this

      I agree! I've never had the flu or the vaccine myself, then this year it hit me. I was diagnosed w/ Influenza Type A. However, I'm still not convinced (even after just getting over it) to voluntarily get the vaccine next year.

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      lburmasterposted 10 years agoin reply to this

      Glad I'm not alone in my planning Hope you are safe this year!

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