Most people dread shots, the flu shot included. This year is the time of year when you have to make the decision of whether or not to get the flu shot. This shot is sometimes provided by employers for free and is said to protect you from getting influenza. So should you or should you not?
The flu shot is only as good as the guess of a group of vaccine researchers across the world. Every February they try to predict which flu viruses can and may infect people during the next fall and winter season. Their top three choices of virus are put into the flu vaccination and administered to those who decide to have the shot. There are claims that the vaccine is 70-90% effective against those strains of the flu. The shot may be less effective for those with weakened immune systems or children. Its effectiveness is also related to how your body reacts to the vaccine. Many people decide to get the shot as a precaution but be warned-it can actually make you get sick. It can produce headaches, fever, chills, rash, hives, and even seizures. Many of the vaccines even carry a very high amount of mercury which is a neurotoxin. It is also good to note that the side effects and long term affects of the flu vaccination have yet to be measured as it has only bee in existence for a small amount of time.
Aside from the side effects and lack of long term date, many people still believe strongly in getting a flu shot each year. It is true that the flu can kill and each year thousands of people are hospitalized from the flu. The people who are at the highest risk include children, pregnant women, the elderly, and those with weaker immune systems . If you do not fit into the high risk group for the flu you may want to consider skipping the shot. Although getting the flu vaccine is a personal decision, it is very important to understand the pros and possible cons of getting this vaccine.
