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Member Comments
by Krisserin on October 29, 2009 at 3:48 PM
I have a problem--I'm a mix of "I dont want to get the shot because I don't want to pump my body full of chemicals," and "I've never had the flu so why do I need the shot."
That being said I went to the doctor yesterday, and she told me she heavily recommends I get the shot because I'm slightly asthmatic and have a higher chance of having complications with the flu.
But I don't wanna! I feel like it's not good for you, and it's better that your body fight it off on it's own. What are your thoughts?
by cgabriel on October 30, 2009 at 8:32 AM
Nope not even a consideration. I am healthy and take care of myself, if I get the flu it will further build my immunities. And added factor is the only time I got a flu shot, I got the flu twice that year, two different strains. No thanks.
by nicholina on November 1, 2009 at 12:02 PM
Vaccines are NOT chemicals. They are attenuated or dead viruses that are injected into you so that your body can build up antibodies against them... you CANNOT get the flu from the flu shot, even the attenuated forms. Vaccines are one of the oldest medical practices and are pretty well understood. They aren't medicines, chemicals, or strange concoctions. Vaccines have completely wiped out several illnesses that plagued populations in the past so that we don't even have to worry about them today. Like small pox. You can still get the flu for up to two weeks after getting inoculated, before your body has had time to build up immunity, and you can experience side effects from the vaccine (THIS IS NOT THE FLU). Additionally, flu vaccines are formulated every year to include resistance to strains of the flu that are circulating in the population that year....NOT every virus in existence. So u can very well catch another virus that wasnt included in the vaccine. Also, the flu shot doesnt protect you against bronchial infections, pneumonias etc. a lot of people call these types of illnesses "the flu"...theyre not.
please lets stop circulating misinformation.
by Krisserin on November 2, 2009 at 10:33 AM
Thanks for clearing that up. My doctor said no "active" vaccinations. I just don't want to get sick from something that's supposed to prevent me from getting sick.
by ihearthamilton on November 2, 2009 at 7:31 PM
While it is true that you cannot get the flu from flu vaccines, it is also true that vaccines have chemicals in them, namely mercury, which is used as a preservative. It is a small amount, but I personally see no reason to intentionally put any amount of mercury into my system.
by maeybe414 on November 3, 2009 at 6:18 PM
Okay. To everyone the flu shot is good to get. But it is very different from the H1N1 also known as swine. Don't get the H1N1 shot. There is no need because it is so unlikely you'll get (swine), unless you already have health problems. The people who died from H1N1 already had health problems. So they were at risk more than other. Otherwise dont get it. A study showed that only 2% of people actually had (swine) who were diagnosed.
by MOTS on October 29, 2009 at 4:39 PM
I am of the same mindset. I have never had the flu so why jinx it by getting a flu shot. I am fairly healthy and haven't gotten sick in a very long time. I am going to take my chances and say "no" to the shot.
by MPM111560 on October 29, 2009 at 4:46 PM
NO SHOT FOR ME
by mimmie1969 on October 29, 2009 at 5:11 PM
I work in a Dr's office as a nurse. We have seen several cases of flu and swine flu (and we aren't even a general practice - it's an OB/GYN). So, I've already been exposed. I got my flu shot and the H1N1 vaccine as well. It's not a live virus so you can't get the flu from the injection. If you sick after you get the shot, it's probably because you've already been exposed and incubation period just happened to end at the right time to appear after the shot. I would highly recommend getting both injections; better safe than sorry!
by taubneam on October 29, 2009 at 5:17 PM
I've never gotten the flu in my entire life. Neither has ANYONE in my immidate family. Last year I was a freshman in college and I decided to pay for the flu shot so I wouldn't have to worry about getting sick and missing classes..... and last year I got the flu.
Interestingly, the only other person in my family who got the flu shot that year was my sister...... and she got the flu too. The rest of my family stayed completely healthy.
I'm staying away from that shot for the rest of my life.
by maeybe414 on November 3, 2009 at 6:20 PM
Hun. The flu and H1N1 are different.
by marykins58 on November 8, 2009 at 10:17 AM
look back to the comment by nicholina on November 1, 2009 at 12:02 PM;
She explains it very well...
I may add:
Every virus you get in your life is a different strain. And then your body (if healthy) builds immunities to THAT PARTICULAR strain of virus after you have had it. Every cold, flu, childhood disease is its OWN strain of virus. Many are very similar as the mutate and form new viruses.
Just because you get a 'flu' after a shot does not mean the shot made you more susceptible. It means either you were:
1. already EXPOSED to that strain when you got the shot or,
2. you acquired it within the two weeks period after the shot was given in which your body was building the antibodies, or
3. you have come down with a totally different virus NOT INCLUDED in the shot.
They cannot possibly include ALL known or new, flu viruses in a single shot! The current flu shots are formulated for the most currently known strains affecting the population in a given season in a geographical area.
by b011381 on October 29, 2009 at 6:03 PM
I am not going to get this shot. The main reason being I ALREADY had H1N1, yes you saw that right I already had the "dreaded" swine flu. People it was not bad at all!!! If you are healthy like I was before I got it you will be fine. My family all had it. Got it from people who were confirmed with it at work. Just drink lots of apple juice and eat garlic to kill the virus.
by kbartholomew2 on November 2, 2009 at 12:55 PM
You might not be "just fine" if you are immunodeficient. If you are an asthmatic, for instance, you have a greater chance of getting serious complications such as pneumonia. You have to consider your own health and the potential implications for those around you.
And while hydrating and garlic are great, I have yet to hear of any evidence that garlic "kills" viruses.
by maeybe414 on November 3, 2009 at 6:22 PM
You didnt have swine flu. Swine flu is not going around. The public thinks its swine but its just H1N1 or "hinee" is what some people call it
by Emma100 on October 29, 2009 at 6:06 PM
I know some adults who have come down with H1N1 in recent weeks and it is much worse than getting the regular flu so I am taking as many precautions as I can. I have already gotten the seasonal shot but won't likely qualify for the H1N1 vaccine until sometime in December. I will get it when offered.
by duckzoom on October 29, 2009 at 6:47 PM
I believe in science and yes I got the regular flu shot. I always will if availabe. The years I don't get it, I have gotten the flu and it is not fun at all. I may or may not get the H1N1 shot, I am in my 30s and healthy. If there is a shortage, I would rather people like my 2 year old nephew get it first.
by chorgan on October 29, 2009 at 7:23 PM
Nope.
The first, and last flu shot I received was 24 yrs. ago at the age of 27, and a month afterward I caught the flu and was the sickest I had ever been. I swore off flu shots then and there, and since then I have only had the flu a couple times, and not even near as serious as the time I received the flu shot. I'll take my chances... thanks, but no thanks.
by aw713 on November 1, 2009 at 4:39 AM
the EXACT same thing happened with me...and like you, I agree, NEVER another flu shot..I was sick for over a month and that has never happened to me as well. It was horrible.
by tlewis24 on October 29, 2009 at 7:56 PM
Nope! like others I got the shot and ended up worse for it. Never again will I get that darn thing.
by Bethanne1047 on October 29, 2009 at 8:16 PM
I don't think getting the flu shot is a bad thing, but I tend to stay healthy enough on my own. And if I do get sick I figure whatever doesn't kill you makes you stronger.
by didnothingfatal on October 30, 2009 at 3:40 AM
No way, untested with some dodgy ingredients. Don't believe the hype!
by mtnbyker on October 30, 2009 at 3:42 AM
No. I am not afraid of the killed virus, but all the other things in vaccines. If I was in a high risk group, I might consider it since the H1N1 seems to be so bad, but all in all I think vaccines have hidden dangers.
by lorwil on October 30, 2009 at 8:01 AM
I am shocked that so many people on a site devoted to health and fitness would display such a cavalier attitude toward a dangerous illness like the flu. It ain't fun, folks; it ain't a bad cold. Yes, sometimes the vaccine has side effects. But you know what? People actually die of the flu. It happens every year, even without the added risk of the new H1N1 virus. And the number of people who die from the flu vastly outnumber the few who suffer a bad reaction from the vaccine.
And for those of you who "don't like to pump chemicals into your body": give me a break.
by kayjay5 on November 11, 2009 at 2:15 PM
I am not sure it's cavalier since people know their own bodies and their health level. I have never gotten a flu shot mainly because it wasn't recommended (prior to this year) for people that didn't have chronic illnesses or over the age of 60 or 65. Flu is generally not dangerous to people in good health.
I am a bit skeptical that it is suddenly necessary for the entire population...but hey, Walgreens is making a fortune since they seem to be the only ones in my area that have it available.
by csb915 on October 30, 2009 at 8:25 AM
Yes, I have already received the seasonal flu shot. I will get the H1N1 shot if and when it is available to me. Why take unnessary risks. This is bad stuff and I will do all I can to protect myself and my family.
by Jergordonhanks on October 30, 2009 at 9:01 AM
HELL NO! no flu shots for me or my family. I am an emergency medical person and never have never will on the flu shots. swine is a great name for this new strain! love it. If i was going to get all worked up about things that kill my fellow citizens I would be involved with something more impactful than the swine flu.
by maksnell on October 30, 2009 at 9:12 AM
Though my immune system has been beaten down by recent chemo, I too refuse to get either shot. I have not had the flu in 7 years, despite being in and out of chemo for a good part of the last 5. I have a great set of lungs and have never once had any type of fluid on my lungs.
That being said, it is terribly important to have someone watch over you carefully when you do get sick. It is quite true - the flu is not fun and it is no joke. Many people with normal immune systems have died from complications from the flu. They didn't get help until it was too late. You have to watch for those complications, such as a terribly high fever, a fever that lingers, and/or dehydration, et al; and get help sooner rather than later. It is so much better to be safe than sorry. And for those of us run cold (for whom 97 degrees is normal, while 98.6 is normal for everyone else), the definition of a "high fever" has to be adjusted accordingly.
by MissOMalley on October 30, 2009 at 10:20 AM
No shot for me. My immune system is healthy enough to fight the virus. No use in injecting myself with strange chemicals for no reason.
by mistressk on October 30, 2009 at 10:37 AM
H1N1 targets young, healthy people (especially women):
/>
/>
http://www.canada.com/news/Young+women+H1N1+Study/2095988/story.html
and a healthy 13 year old died within 48 hours of displaying symptoms:
http://www.cbc.ca/canada/story/2009/10/27/frustraglio-h1n1-toronto-hockey113.html
being a generally healthy individual has no impact on your ability to fight off this virus. know the facts, folks. the world health organization doesn't throw words like "pandemic" around without reason.
by aleif on October 30, 2009 at 10:50 AM
I've never gotten a flu shot and hope to never need to. Given the scope of virus variants there's no guarantee the shot will even protect so why risk injecting something foreign into your body that may come back to haunt you later. I'll take my chances and continue to practice prevention thru proper hygiene.
by vw1949 on October 30, 2009 at 12:13 PM
If you have children or elderly people in your care it is a good idea to get them vaccinated because they are the population who tend to die of this virus disease. The vaccination has been tested and is probably effective. (No scientist would tell someone that it is 100% effective: no such thing). People do vary in their reaction to a virus and viruses vary in nastiness. But do you want to have someone who is your responsibility get sick and possibly die if you could have done *anything* to prevent it?
by Tazsmit on October 30, 2009 at 12:19 PM
Have to get both, no choice because I have asthma. I did not get the flu shot last year and ended up with becoming severly ill three times. My company pays for our flu shots and if I don't prove to my doctor when I go in for my yearly asthma checkup that I have had them, they are going to give them to me.
by Krisserin on October 30, 2009 at 2:37 PM
My doctor told me to get it because I'm slightly asthmatic. Was it really "no choice" for you?
by Krisserin on October 30, 2009 at 2:38 PM
That's crazy--most of you guys say "no" to the flu shot. I don't want to get it either but my doctor advised me to. What should I do?
by galahadsmom on October 31, 2009 at 4:59 AM
hmm... listen to the advice of the masses on a public website where any idiot can post... or trust your doctor who is advising you based on MEDICAL indications? Seems like a real no-brainer to me.
by Prissy100 on October 30, 2009 at 6:38 PM
No, I won't be getting any type flu shots. I did get the Pneumonia vaccine though that lasts for 5 years or more. This made the most sense to me since people die from pneumonia not the flu. They're not even sure if this even works.
I've had the flu two times in my lifetime. I feel getting the flu or a cold is just part of being a human being.
I was truly shocked when I read that children today get 33 or more vaccinations, wow. Babies are bomb barded with vaccinations as well, no wonder we have so much autism, and other neurological diseases today. I remember getting maybe three all together. Getting Chicken Pox and the Measles was just a part of growing up.
12,000 people in California died last year from flu, being the complications of it, meaning...Pneumonia. The difference between then and now, is that, it wasn't on the front page headlines. This year, yes, it seems to be affecting younger people more, or maybe this too is because it's on the front page headlines.
by Krisserin on November 2, 2009 at 11:23 AM
I got the pneumonia vaccine too. But it's strictly for strep-pneumonia and I got it because I've already had it and am therefore more susceptible.
by CircaRigel on November 3, 2009 at 4:40 PM
In the USA alone, 30,000 to 50,000 die every year from the flu. The flu does kill, and like Kris said, the vaccine you got is only for strep pneumonia. The pneumonia shot does not protect against other bacterial and viral causes of pneumonia.
by Prissy100 on October 30, 2009 at 6:47 PM
"Is the Swine Flu Really a Pandemic?" This is from he German news magazine Speigel. Why is it that only the USA has a pandemic, what is Obama trying to do, his ulterior motives? have we been hoodwinked, a nicer word for it.... Bullsh***d? I believe we have.
http://www.spiegel.de/international/world/0,1518,657876,00.html
by mistressk on October 31, 2009 at 9:45 AM
only the USA? i suppose you think of canada as the 51st state, then?
by me22pyro on November 3, 2009 at 9:31 AM
The WHO declared a pandemic, not Obama... c'mon people
by Skyoutlaw on October 30, 2009 at 7:39 PM
I am a Fire Captain, and i will NOT BE GETTING this vaccine. I did receive the regular flu shot, but the swine vaccine was rushed into production far to quickly for me to trust its safety. Many of the normal tests and safeguards where bypassed to get the vaccine into production so fast. Dont let the media hype scare you into a decision until you are fully informed about the risks and benifits if this vaccine.
by CircaRigel on November 3, 2009 at 4:41 PM
It's production method was identical to the production of seasonal flu vaccine, which has been manufactured with this method for DECADES. That means there is decades of clinical testing for the vaccine.
by DEastlick on October 30, 2009 at 7:57 PM
I am a Firefighter with a Fire Department who also transports both ALS & BLS patients. I will be getting the vaccine Monday, even though I have never had a seasonal flu shot since I left active duty military in 1988.
I am scheduled for the nasal , while others in my department are scheduled for the injection inoculation. Does anyone know why two types are offered and how and why individuals are "pre-screened" for either?
by CircaRigel on October 31, 2009 at 9:03 PM
I do. People who have asthma, weakened immune systems, diabetes, or other high risk conditions, or who are in close contact with those deemed high risk should not get the nasal vaccine, since it's a live vaccine of weakened virus. As to the shot, the virus is grown in chicken eggs, and people allergic to eggs can have allergic reactions to it, and either need to be pre-treated for the allergy prior to the shot, or get the nasal alternative.
by CircaRigel on October 31, 2009 at 9:03 PM
I do. People who have asthma, weakened immune systems, diabetes, or other high risk conditions, or who are in close contact with those deemed high risk should not get the nasal vaccine, since it's a live vaccine of weakened virus. As to the shot, the virus is grown in chicken eggs, and people allergic to eggs can have allergic reactions to it, and either need to be pre-treated for the allergy prior to the shot, or get the nasal alternative.
by Krisserin on November 2, 2009 at 11:23 AM
That's a great question. I'll have to ask what the difference is.
by sbogumil20 on October 30, 2009 at 9:54 PM
I work as a registered RN in a hospital and have seen H1N1 in patients. Yet, I refuse to get the vaccination. I refuse the seasonal flu shot as well. I feel with the information given to me I can make my own informed decision. I am a healthy individual and I know what is best for my body. Currently the CDC and government is pushing a product for "our protection" as they say. I don't believe they know the long term effects of this new vaccination. I also don't feel that the news media gives the full story of the victims of H1N1. Many stories of often one sided with missing important information. Science has made many great discoveries in the medical world, but at some point we have to remember that sickness is often a result of our own doing. Remember, doctors today are protected is saying to get the H1N1 vaccination because the CDC is recommending it. A better question to ask a doctor is if they have received the vaccination themselves. Not all practice what they preach. Eat fresh fruits and vegetables, drink plenty of water, exercise and keep stress low. Sometimes the basics are all we need to stay healthy.
by Lisaizme on October 31, 2009 at 3:09 AM
I took the seasonal flu shot. I'm undecided on H1N1, but leaning towards not getting it.
by rdiky on November 1, 2009 at 9:27 AM
It's funny how many people think the standard flu shot will help them this year, when it won't. It was developed pre-H1N1 outbreak. H1N1 is 98% of the flu virus in this country currently, if you get the standard flu shot, you obviously believe it will help, go ahead and get the H1N1, it'll help a lot more.
by Jane_J on October 31, 2009 at 4:18 AM
I am asthmatic as is my daughter and we have both had the seasonal flu jab and will have the swine flu one when it's available here in the UK. As I am only alive due to modern medical science I would rather place my trust there than in the latter day Luddites of our society.
by tepia53 on October 31, 2009 at 5:15 AM
I was considering getting it but have decided not to. In the past I have gotten the regualar flu shot but I am not getting it either.
by limery on October 31, 2009 at 10:16 AM
I already got the seasonal flu shot. Since I'm diabetic Is very important for with diabetes to get the flu sho
by Krisserin on November 2, 2009 at 11:24 AM
I didn't know that was true. Crazy.
by kaedwards on October 31, 2009 at 12:24 PM
Last time I had a flu shot I got a really bad dose of the flu. With all the harmful information always released 10 years after we try something new it is difficult to believe this is any different. I think if we all eat healthy and take our vitamins it will decrease the chance of becoming another statistic of the H1N1.
NO is my answer
by comradecheetah on October 31, 2009 at 5:09 PM
Yes, I have had the flu shot already. If H1N1 is available I will get it. I would not want to be a carrier and accidentally infect someone in my family who is older or perhaps doesn't have a strong immune system.
by PacificLight on October 31, 2009 at 5:42 PM
No, I am not getting a flu shot. Never have gotten one. I have many reasons, some logical and some not. I have many health issues and sensitivities/allergies.. When all the stars are aligned and I am able to be disciplined with supplements and correct foods my body is able to restore and my immune system is fairly strong. I have never really believed in the flu shots and don't want to add that to the mix. So far I haven't gotten the flu and hopefully won't this year either.
by lilmslu on October 31, 2009 at 6:45 PM
Not me either. I work in a hospital and the shots are offered (both flu and H1N1 vaccines) to employees free of charge. I opt not to have it as I am faily healthy and I don't get the flu. I believe we already had the swine flu go thru our house about a month ago (a mild case in comparison, so with that I formed immunities. I don't do shots if I don't have too.
by Beatress on October 31, 2009 at 7:47 PM
No, my darling I'm not getting the flu shots. Had the flu once, never any shots for it.
Be careful if you get the FluMist and you are to be around people with weak immune systems, or if they chemo, bone marrow transplant or anything else bad, they can get the flu from you. FluMist makes people carriers, it's live you know, healthy people won't be effected by you though...well so they say.
by rdiky on November 1, 2009 at 9:24 AM
This is simply untrue. The flumist is a "live" vaccine, but it is simply virus parts, it is not the whole flu virus, therefore, if you get the flu mist, you are not contagious. Those with weakened immune systems get the flu shot because it is more effective and gives their weakened immune system a better change to develop antibodies against the virus as a whole.
by CircaRigel on October 31, 2009 at 8:57 PM
I've already received my seasonal shot. I'm waiting for my Dr. office to get the shot for H1N1. As a survivor of kidney disease, I'm high risk, both in my health history and in the work I do, and I don't want the flu to interrupt my training, work, studies, or worse. Unfortunately, my history and work make the nasal vaccine risky, since it's live. Once the shot is available to me, though, I'll be getting it.
For those who are afraid of getting the flu from it, the SHOT is a killed vaccine. Any symptoms you get are from your immune response to it, not to the flu itself, and these are generally mild. If you get the flu shortly after the shot, chances are you were already exposed to the actual flu, before your immune system could react to the shot and build up immunity to it... or you were exposed to a strain not covered by the shot.
by Idthornell on October 31, 2009 at 9:42 PM
like so many others, I got a seasonal flu shot once and was sick all winter so I never get them. I do have to get the H1N1 for work because I work with pregnant women. It is simple: no shot, no hours.
by pamelagold on November 1, 2009 at 5:07 AM
I've gotten both regular flu and H1N1 - both use the exact same process so I have no concern over the "rushing to market" issue. I have two wee ones so there was no question that I would get the vaccine and that I would vaccinate them. The risk with the flu is much greater than the risk associated with the vaccine. That's good enough for me.
by rdiky on November 1, 2009 at 9:21 AM
I am in the military, and as such, got the flu shot as directed each year. I work in the medical field, and despite being exposed to flus and illnesses on a daily basis, and yes, the "horrible" H1N1, (which is a much more mild flu for those of us in our late 20's and up, unfortunately, it's the children who get hit worst with this one) and still, I have not had the flue since I came in the military, despite close quarters and at times cramped living conditions, the flu is very rare in the military community... with these data, I will cotinue to get the flu shot long after I leave the military as well.
by Ginny0015 on November 1, 2009 at 10:18 AM
Nope, never have . . . with the speed in which the producers have to put out the vaccine. I am not convinced that the product is safe. Just another way for someone to financially benefit from media hysteria. I am healthy, take good care of myself, eat properly and have no risk factors that would make having the flu anymore than a real pain. I had the flu 2 years ago and feel that, that was better than a flu shot . . . natural immunity. Yes, it was not fun, but I am still here and doing fine just as before I had the flu.
by TickledPinkTeri on November 1, 2009 at 12:08 PM
I had the regular flu shot already this year. I got a reaction from it, more than others. I am a severe asthmatic and on a few meds for it. I am leary of the H1N1 vaccine for me and for my kids. Hubby didn't want the kids to get the free H1N1 vaccine at school. our younger daughter got the regular flu shot (nasal) at the Dr. office when she was there for something else. I am concerned about some of the long term problems that I have heard of happening to kids and young adults as a result of the flu shots. We have kids in our area that have already gotten the H1N1 and regular flu.
by radio_mike on November 1, 2009 at 12:14 PM
Got a Regular Flu shot just like I do every year. No problems and so far no flu. I mention it because everyone seems to think they don't need the shot, or thinks the vaccine is going to cause another problem. It's just for the flu..
by ammery on November 1, 2009 at 2:46 PM
No way. My friends mother is a nurse, she says its just this years new flu. There's a new one each year. All flus always effect the very old or very young because they have lower immune systems. People die every year from the flu but for some reason they hyped his one up this year and reported on the deaths. So, I am neither very young or very old and I am healthy. I have no idea who comes up with the vaccinations or if what they put in them is really whats in them. I would rather fight it off naturally if I am exposed.
by AutismNewsBeat on November 2, 2009 at 5:58 AM
H1N1 is different from the typical seasonal flu in that it affects the young and healthy at a disproportionately higher rate, and largely leaves the elderly alone. Please stop spreading misinformation.
by Rockpicken on November 1, 2009 at 4:16 PM
I already got one. Free at work. Not worried about swine flu, who cares.
by kolnisch on November 2, 2009 at 6:28 AM
> eat garlic to kill the virus.
Oh puh-leeze. The level science knowledge these days is just pathetic. Garlic does't kill viruses. It kills vampires.
by itcets on November 2, 2009 at 7:17 AM
No, I'm not going to get the flu shot. I never have and never will because flu viruses are too many and too specific. So, the only way the flu shot helps is to fight the exact strain for which you are vaccinated. You will still get a flu virus that will make you sick. Another mutated swine flu strain can get you after being inoculated with the H1N1 strain. I don't unnecessarily put myself at risk by injecting myself with man's hastily engineered viruses.
by markhynes on November 2, 2009 at 10:06 AM
I am not sure any of us are fully being educated about the risks on both sides of this debate. Certainly if you are considered to be in a 'high-risk' group for developing life-threatening complications from either flu virus, the benefits of the vaccinations seem warranted. But how about the rest of us who are generally healthy with healthy immune systems and aren't in high risk categories?
The fact is, no one really knows the possible effects of flu vaccinations. There certainly have been ties to other serious ailments, albeit nothing from official medical studies. But if, as a healthy person, the risks of life-threatening complications are vastly remote, and I feel like crap for a week, I think I can live with that. The flu vaccine contains other chemicals including formaldehyde (its what keeps the virus dead) and in H1N1, mercury. I don't need those, thank you.
by jcarve on November 2, 2009 at 11:09 AM
Got the seasonal flu shot. Not getting the Swine Flu shot. Being a member of the older generation I already have immunity.
by mchen on November 2, 2009 at 11:39 AM
I have gotten a flu shot every year for the past 9 years after having a case of the flu turn into full pneumonia - ouch! Before that I've suffered several instances of walking pneumonia I've had asthma for the past 20 years of my life (I'm 43 years old). I haven't had any bad side effects from the flu shot other than a sore arm. I don't remember the last time I've had the flu, it's been so long ago. I don't miss the fever, aches and painful coughing. I'll continue with the flu shot as long they're available.
by Beatress on November 2, 2009 at 12:00 PM
rdiky....I found some websites where I read that FluMist does Shed. People who are have healthy immune systems are not affected by it, but others with immune compromised systems are from what I've read and found these links about it. />
http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/pubs/pinkbook/downloads/flu.pdf />
http://www.vaccineinfo.net/immunization/vaccine/influenza/flumist_vaccine_risks.shtml />
http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2003/10/04/flumist-vaccine.aspx
http://groups.google.com/group/misc.health.alternative/browse_thread/thread/c57bab8b7560d9b1
by wagdoc on November 2, 2009 at 12:23 PM
No way. The only time I even had the flu was in 1973 after a flu shot that I felt coerced into having. Thanks to our laws, pharmaceutical companies are "immune" to being sued for injuries caused by these injections. I've read a bit about side effects (Guillaine Barre Syndrome) caused by adjuvants (squalene) and am a bit skeptical about being a test subject. I've decided that I'll use Vitamin D3 and elderberry and be alert to the information my body is giving me so I can take care of myself.
by cottontop44 on November 2, 2009 at 12:47 PM
I'm not in an at risk category so I'm not going to get it.
by kbartholomew2 on November 2, 2009 at 12:49 PM
I am asthmatic and ALWAYS get the seasonal flu shot (which does not and CANNOT give you flu - mild aches and such, but not FLU). And I have read that I am at higher risk of complications such as pneumonia from H1N1, so I'd LOVE to find it. My father, who has asthma and "terminal" cancer falls out of the CDC "high-risk" guidelines because at sixty-six he is "too old."
I've been appalled at the fear-mongering in the media that's left us with a paucity of USEFUL information about H1N1 and the vaccine. If you dig through the muck, I think you'll find much more POSITIVE information in terms of the development of the vaccine.
And those of you who don't get vaccinated, I must respectfully ask that you consider your status as "vectors" for those of us at the most risk. H1N1 is especially highly, HIGHLY contagious. Even seasonal flu is can be deadly.
by shan070877 on November 2, 2009 at 1:06 PM
Yes I will! I suggest that people be their own advocate and do their research before they offer up their "opinion" as truth. I have kids and my youngest has asthma. As a mother it's my job to protect my children. I would'nt want to contract the h1n1 virus because I was too selfish to consider my family and pass it to my children possibly killing them.
by betsyhiner on November 2, 2009 at 1:43 PM
I am definitely not getting either of the flu shots. I've had the flu twice in my lifetime, once with the regular flu a couple of years ago (that lasted a whole 4 days) and once with the H1N1 not too long again (which lasted only 3 days). Anyone in my family who has gotten the shot before always comes down with a horrible case of the flu shortly after. It happened after every single shot so i hardly believe that it was just a coincidence.
I will continue to not get the flu shot. I am very confident in my immune system as it hasn't failed me yet. And if i do come down with something, then i will just have to seek the medical attention that i'll need at that time.
by creativityshop on November 2, 2009 at 4:37 PM
I started with H1N1 symptoms three weeks ago. The first week I spent at home with a 103.5 fever, the night before the fever broke I started vomiting. The next day I started with diahrea for 5 days. The exhaustion that you feel during this lasted for two weeks after the fever broke. I still have some congestion even three weeks later. My son and husband have both had the H1N1 as well but theirs lasted just a couple of days. The thing is that you don't know how this is going to effect you. I missed a week of work and just recently feel well enough to get caught up on my household chores. H1N1 is certainly not something I want to go through again any time soon. If it had been available I should have gotten the vaccine.
by GaCowgirl on November 3, 2009 at 3:48 AM
Vaccines have improved the lives of millions for decades. Most of them have some type of preservative. If you eat deep water fish regularly and/or live in a house with carpet, foam cushions or pillows or some types of wallpaper, you are already getting your dose of Mercury from the fish and formaldehyde from your home. I'd worry a lot more about the mercury and formaldehyde exposure regularly from those sources than the minute amount in the H1N1 shot. If you have ever been vaccinated for anything....you agree with the premise that a killed or modified live vaccine results in immunity for your body. The H1N1 shot is the same. Everyone would probably be better off this year to take the H1N1 instead of the seasonal flu because H1N1 IS the seasonal flu this year. We as a society take for granted the immunity we have becuase those vaccines were required for school admissions. For those not taking the H1N1 shot, be aware that you are missing a chance to develop some immunity to a less prevalent type of virus. The next time it comes around, the strain may be more severe. I am a doc and I have already had it. And I believe in alternative therapies and staying healthy, but for me and my patients, this is a no-brainer.
by Sirie on November 3, 2009 at 4:56 AM
Dont think I will have the flu shot as I actually dont know about the side effects of it.
by mrhuckins on November 3, 2009 at 6:12 AM
When I was forced to take the annual flu shot in the military, I got very sick every time after I got the shot. If I don't get the shot, I might get sick, then again, I might not. For me it's not really much of a choice at all.
So far I am very healthy and have been exposed to the H1N1 from people who have it at work and so on. I'm feeling very good about my choice of not getting the H1N1 Vaccine.
by jdcoh on November 3, 2009 at 9:34 AM
For everyone reading this, please don't take the posts as medical advice. Talk to your doctor.
Everyone is allowed to make their own informed choice, but please be informed. The benefit of the flu vaccine (swine and seasonal) is "herd immunity". The more people who get it the better. The H1N1 vaccine is manufactured the same way as the seasonal flu and is not "experimental" or "untested". It's just a different strain.
Also, no one, including an employer, can "force" you to get the vaccine. But in some professions there's a lot of pressure. Discuss it with your physician.
Finally, more than 99% of people who are infected with H1N1 have a course similar to the seasonal flu. But for a few, it's not a joke. And it is effecting healthy, immunocompetent people. Just because you do not have concurrent medical problems does not mean that you are immune to the H1N1 or to its devastating effects.
Again, please view this blog as just that...a blog. People writing whatever they want. Please discuss your individual case with your physician and make an informed choice.
by me22pyro on November 3, 2009 at 9:38 AM
My daughter was taken ill with the flu at 5months and as a result is now asthmatic from the early illness. She has been hospitaliezed twice, once for the common cold. You bet your *** we have gotten our flu shots! Seasonal every year without any illness and my daughter had her H1N1 and will go back for a booster soon. People who act like the flu is harmless, or that they're super immune to illness frustrate me because treating the flu like it's harmless is plain naive.
by CircaRigel on November 3, 2009 at 4:49 PM
Agreed. Plus, by getting yourself vaccinated, you also protect those around you. I work with kids with high risk conditions (and thus can only have the shot, not the nasal vaccine). By vaccinating myself, I'm avoiding contracting it, protecting myself, and protecting those around me from catching it from me.
by RunJillRun on November 3, 2009 at 12:27 PM
I would probably get it for my kids since they are in the risk group, but the only way to get it in my area is to go to a free clinic at the High School and stand in line for who knows how long??? If it becomes more readily available, we are in. I would much rather get it taken care of at the doctors office than a county clinic!
by Prissy100 on November 3, 2009 at 12:32 PM
Read this before you decide to get any flu shots. Pregnant women be aware before infecting your unborn baby.
"Swine Flu -- One of the Most Massive
Cover-ups in American History"
http://products.mercola.com/swine-flu/20091103.htm
by krn163 on November 5, 2009 at 6:17 PM
I am on the fence. I have two small children, their day care facility reported two cases of H1N1 and our pediatrician changed his position. He is recommending the vaccination. He's admitted several children to the hospital and some schools are closed due to the H1N1. Colleagues in the medical community are also on the fence. I should parse all of the data and make up my mind ASAP. Alarmingly, healthy children, teenagers and adults have died of the swine flu. It is an epidemic
by kayjay5 on November 12, 2009 at 9:33 AM
It's a bit of a moot point for me. H1N1 vaccinations are being prioritized since supply is limited. I'm not in any of the priority groups. (Recipients must be pregnant women, healthcare and emergency medical services personnel, six months to 24 years old, a household caregiver of children under six months, or 25 to 64 years old with chronic medical conditions.) I feel this is also true for seasonal flu. I am not in any of the recommended groups to have the vaccination, so I never have.
by b011381 on November 12, 2009 at 10:49 PM
Who ever said that a vaccine is not a chemical is wrong. EVERYTHING is a chemical. LOL!! Water, salt, vitamins, germs, your hair & nails, your skins, the air we breathe. My husband is a chemist and laugh when I hear misinformed people saying that chemicals are bad.