Flu vaccine falls flat
"Get your flu vaccine!" You're breathlessly encouraged to do this on every news program as soon as schools are back in session.
Fear-mongering at its worst, especially for a vaccine that got its hindquarters handed to it from the dominant virus strains during this last flu season. But this isn't news—it seems just as common after flu season to hear how the vaccine missed its mark.
Yet that doesn't stop the annual parade to local doctor's offices, pharmacies and participating groceries for a jab in the arm.
You should know me well enough by now to know that I'm not a fan of vaccines—especially the overrated, underperforming flu variety. And this past season has been rated one of the worst in years.
The problem is that an annual guess has to be made as to which strains of flu are going to dominate for that season. But viruses mutate, so your odds aren't so hot that you're going to get a perfect match. (They'd be better off laying bets in Vegas, actually.)
Another big problem with the vaccine is that people think the protection it confers means they're relieved of the responsibility of taking care of themselves. Don't fall into that trap!
You want to avoid the flu next year? Then start working now on giving your body the ultimate preparation with a regimen of whole foods, exercise and adequate rest. This will boost your immune system, which is the best defense against those tricky little viral invaders.
