During the start of the flu season there are many agencies and schools pushing people to get a flu shot. Before getting a flu shot you may want to be a little bit more informed. Getting a shot may not be the right choice for everyone. This is a choice everyone must make for themselves.
What is the Flu Shot
Every year the Public Health Service decides which three strains of the flu they believe are the most probable to spread and these strains are used to make that years flu shot. The vaccine is grown from purified viruses which are grown in egg cultures. There is mercury added to the shot to serve as a preservative. It takes two weeks for the shot to become effective and you need to get it yearly to be protected.
Pros And Cons
Pros of getting the flu shot
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Prevent the flu: The CDC says that the flu shot is the best way to prevent yourself from getting the flu. The shot is estimated to be about 70% effective. Also it can reduce respiratory illnesses, doctor visits, and missed work.
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Availability: The flu shot is available at almost every hospital and clinic as well as some pharmacy’s. Children can get the shot as young as six months old. The vaccination is available as either a shot or a nasal mist.
Cons of getting the flu shot
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Limited effectiveness: Getting vaccinated is not a sure thing. Some people will contract influenza as a result of getting the shot. Also the shot is only effective against the strains that that are predicted to spread.
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Complications from additives: There is mercury added to the influenza vaccine. In large amounts mercury has been linked to brain disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease and may be a contributing factor to autism. Also since eggs are used to make the vaccine it may be unsafe for people with egg allergies.
