Every year, we are bombarded with propaganda that we have to get the flu shot in order to save not only ourselves from the health risks associated with the flu, but also those that cannot be vaccinated and are more susceptible to the illness. However, for all the hype, the data shows that the flu shot just isn’t effective.
The Effectiveness of the Flu Vaccine
Let’s be clear on one point right off the bat: if the flu vaccine was effective (and didn’t contain ingredients that could cause harm), I’d be in. As rightly stated in many pro-vaccine articles, it wasn’t too long ago that the viral strains that caused the flu would wipe out (i.e., kill) large percentages of the population. Flu vaccine proponents claim that mass vaccinations are the reason for the dramatic decline in flu-related deaths, and that those that don’t get vaccinated are risking life and limb by not getting the vaccine. The data however tells a much different story.
Rather than reiterate what is known, here is a great, concise article on the effectiveness of the flu vaccine over the past 15 years: https://thevaccinereaction.org/2019/10/flu-shots-may-be-even-less-effective-this-year/ . Clearly, more effective approaches are needed.
Improving Immunity
The most effective way to reduce your chances of getting the flu (or any viral infection) while limiting the severity of the flu if you do get it is to improve your immune function. Here is a past article on how to achieve this: https://naturalpathhealthcenter.com/2010/10/11/getting-ready-for-the-cold-and-flu-season/ .
As much as I hate to say it, it appears that money more than science is driving the current, ongoing flu vaccination programs. Everyone needs to make the decision for themselves (and be allowed to do so) on whether or not to get the flu vaccine. Whether you choose to get it or not, you can optimize your immune function to reduce your chances of getting the flu.