Signs are up everywhere advertising for flu shot clinics. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommends that you should get either a flue shot or use the flu vaccine nasal spray once a year. However lately there has also been a lot of controversy surrounding the shot. Professionals have differing opinions about the flu shot as to whether everyone should have one or not due to the side effects that may cause. In oder to make a personal decision for yourself here are the facts. The flu is a greater risk to those who have a weakened immune system, this includes very young children and the very elderly as well as anyone who has a compromised immune system. Therefore, there is no debate between the medical professionals that all in this group get the flu shot yearly. However; due to the side effects that are possible and the complications that can arise, it is not always right for everyone.
Typical side effects can include fever, body aches and soreness, swelling at the site of the shot. The nasal spray may cause a runny nose, headache, afternoon throat or cough. There have been recent studies that have shown a potential link between the flu shot and autism. Because of this study, many have opted out this year from getting the flu shot. The truth is that a preservative that is used to preserve the vaccine contains thimerosal. Thirmerosal is known to be a neurotoxin, simply this means that in large enough dosages (which are not even close in a single flu shot) could cause mercury contamination and severe illness. Most that offer the flu shots however, also offer a preservative free option but you might need to ask them if they can supply you with one.
Flu shots contain dead influenza for almost two weeks after receiving a flu shot, antibodies provide protection against some strains of the influenza virus developing in the body. Currently there is no flu shot available that provides protection from the avian influenza strains of the virus.
Since some people can develop severe side effects it is also recommended that you should consult with a physician first. An example of why a person should contact their physician is that not many know that the shot contains eggs, so if you are highly allergic, you should not take the shot as it can cause you to develop Guillain-Barre syndrome. This is a disease that the body damages its own nerve cells that can result in permanent nerve damage. The best action is that of protecting yourself from the risk of contracting the flu and other viruses by practicing good health habits such as frequent hand washing, not touching your mouth or nose after touching a public surface and avoiding those who have active colds or flu's. Ensuring that every person has proper nutrition, getting regular rest and exercise will also strengthen a body and help it to ward off any bacterial virus.
Because of the number of side effects, the controversy surrounding the flu shot, the best advice to follow is talk to your health care provider before having the flu shot to determine if it is the right decision for you.
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