Flu vaccine: pros and cons?

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The flu vaccination is a relatively new form of viral protection that still remains a mystery to many. Many doctors recommend that people get the injected or nasal flu shot every year to reduce the chances of getting infected with the flu. For those concerned about the benefits versus the potential risks, it’s important to understand some of the pros and cons of the flu shot.

The biggest factor in getting the annual flu shot is that it reduces the chances of getting sick. While this may simply save a few days of discomfort for most people, it can be a real lifesaver in some cases. People who have a high risk of developing complications from flu infection are often advised by doctors to get vaccinated annually. People considered to be most at risk of complications include young children, the elderly, those with suppressed immune systems, those who work in health care settings and pregnant women.

Another important positive factor caused by flu vaccination is the reduction of the possibility of an epidemic. The flu is easily passed from one person to another through infected secretions such as phlegm and saliva. An infected person who sneezes on a public bus can easily transfer the virus to others in close proximity, not to mention leave traces of the virus for the next person who sits down. When the virus passes through a significant population, it is considered an epidemic. By immunizing as many of the population as possible, doctors can help reduce the risk of an epidemic developing, making immunized people much less likely to catch or spread infection.

There are some downsides to the flu that should be considered before getting treatment. First, some people experience side effects that include aches, fever, and fatigue. These side effects are often attributed to people who believe the shot gave them the flu, but are actually the result of a viral infection. It may be a good idea to schedule your flu shot for a time when rest is possible.

Not all people can get the flu shot or immunizing nasal spray. Babies under six months old cannot receive the immunization and those who are already ill with fever must wait until they recover before receiving the vaccine. Some people experience a significant and even dangerous allergic reaction, particularly those who have allergies to chicken eggs. In rare cases, the vaccine is thought to have caused an immunological disease known as Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS), which can cause permanent nerve damage and even death. People who are diagnosed with Guillain-Barre syndrome after receiving a vaccination are usually advised not to get the annual immunization.

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