According to experts at the Mayo Clinic, flu shots usually work for most people. If you’ve received your flu shot in the past and were let down, it’s still probably best to get an annual vaccination.
Anyone at high risk - those over age 50, anyone with heart disease and diabetics should get a flu shot to prevent complications. Flu symptoms can be severe. If you’re health is already compromised, hospitalization can result from fever, dehydration, weakness and metabolic disturbance. If you’re allergic to eggs, or have had a past reaction, the vaccine can be dangerous, meaning you're not a candidate. Statistics show that flu shots reduce hospitalizations by as much as 70% and deaths of those at risk by more than 80%.
The recommendations aren’t very specific. It’s a game of odds, but still one worth playing. Even if you do get the flu, symptoms are likely to be less severe once you're vaccinated.
Why You Might Still Get the Flu
Vaccines work 90% of the time. Each year a different flu strain emerges Scientists do their best to match the virus going around with the right vaccine. There are never guarantees.
If you get chills, fever and aches, all flu symptoms, contact your doctor for a prescription. Antiviral drugs, such as Tamiflu can shorten the course of a flu bout, but they have to be taken within 48 hours.
What Else You Can Do for Flu Prevention
Wash your hands frequently. Avoid others who have the flu. If you have symptoms, don’t go to work. You’ll only infect others. Keep your hands away from your face, especially during flu and cold season. Supplement your diet with Vitamin D if you haven’t already started to do so. Make sure you get plenty of rest, eat your fruits and vegetables, and drink adequate amounts of fluid every day. If you can’t get five servings of fruits and vegetables daily, drink your favorite vegetable juice as an alternative. Stay active, and keep stress at bay. The combination of good lifestyle habits, and getting your flu shot should ensure better health during flu season.
Several studies show that olive leaf extract has anti-viral and antimicrobial properties. You can consider adding olive leaf extract as a supplement to help boost immunity, increasing your protection during cold and flu season.
Nobody really wants to get the flu. It’s important that we all do our part to prevent the spread of any virus or infection.
