Flu Shots absolutely do make a difference. I've gotten one every year since '93 and have noticed a big difference. I've still gotten the flu, but a LOT less frequently after getting the flu shot. It's a good idea for everyone to take it, not just the elderly. Anyone working around children (like teachers) should especially get a flu shot. So I always make sure I get mine. Several years ago, my aunt's doctor told her that he wouldn't give her a flu shot that year since there was a shortage and she wasn't considered "high risk" (even though she was also a teacher). A few months later, she ended up getting the flu which led to a very severe case of pnemococil pneumonia where she died a week later. My mother and I argued about whether or not not getting the flu shot had something to do with her death. I stated that I had gotten the flu shot that year and that a couple of months before my aunt go the flu, I had a really bad case of the flu to the point I felt like I was dying. My mother said that since I got the flu shot and my aunt didn't, perhaps that's why I lived and she didn't. At first, I was horrified and outraged by this statement. But afterwards realized that my mother could be right about this. My mother was always very paranoid even before this happened to my aunt (even for a Jewish mother). So after this situation, you can bet your bottom dollar that she will be sure I will be getting my flu shot regardless of whatever shortage situation might be taking place.
Also, a few weeks after my aunt passed away, my parents encouraged me to ask my doctor to give me a pneumonia shot which I got with no objection. So that's also a good shot to get, one that our doctors may not offer us, but one that we will need to ask for. Unfortunately, there are many things which might benefit us but that our doctors may not think of, but we will receive those things if we ask for it. For years, I've been suffering from fatigue. My doctor never suggested that I get a sleep study done. But my mother suggested that I get this done. So I requested it. It turns out I have periodic limb movement disorder which I'm now taking Requip for and noticing a significant difference in my energy level already. I'm really happy about this, but also wonder why my doctor never thought about me getting a sleep study since he knew of my fatigue issues.
Anyway, I've rambled on enough and digressed a little from the original topic. But yes, a big thumbs up for flu shots!
Topic: Flu Shots (Read 2090 times)