Influenza is a contagious virus that causes fever, headache, sore throat, cough, chills, aches and fatigue. For most healthy people the flu will last 4-7 days and you can expect to be off work for that time period. When someone has a weakened immune system due to other illness or age there is a chance that the flu can cause other complications and even death. Those who are high risk for getting the flu may choose to be vaccinated to protect them. These people include the elderly (over 65), children, people with chronic disease, pregnant women in their third trimester, people living in dorms or nursing homes, teachers or day care providers. Nurses, Doctors and other healthcare providers may also choose to be vaccinated.

For the rest of us, is it as important as the government claims? One reason the government may push flu shots so strongly is because of the high cost of sick days on companies and the potential stress on the healthcare profession that those with the flu put on the system. The truth is that the flu shot is only 70% effective at preventing the flu. It also takes two weeks to be fully protected and it is possible to contract the virus during that lag period. Although the flu shot is not a guarantee against the flu it definitely lowers your chances of getting it.

There are some minor side effects to receiving your flu shot, but most feel that these are minor in comparison to having the flu itself. You may develop a fever while your body creates the antibody for the virus and you may notice your arm is sore where you received the shot. Fatigue and muscle aches may also occur but that can be cured with rest. There is a common misconception that the flu shot will give you the flu. This is impossible as the virus that is injected into your body is destroyed.

Other things to consider before receiving your flu shot is what type of shot you are receiving. This year in some areas the shot may be a combined vaccination against the common flu and H1N1 or the swine flu. If you have concerns about the H1N1 vaccination speak with your doctor or nurse before receiving the shot. There were some concerns last year that the H1N1 vaccination was not tested long enough and therefore may not be safe. Further testing has been completed this year so discuss your concerns with your doctor to find out more about the vaccination.

You will also want to discuss with your doctor any allergies that you have before getting your flu shot. You may be affected by the shot if you are allergic to latex, certain foods, other medications or vaccines. Eggs are used in the production of the vaccine, so if you have an egg allergy do not get the flu shot.

Studies have shown that although the number of vaccinations in adults has increased the number of deaths as a result of the flu has not decreased. One could argue that the flu shot is not as necessary as doctors and governments make it out to be. Also there may be a link to Alzheimer’s from the use of formaldehyde, aluminum and mercury in the flu vaccination. This has not been proven but some people believe there is a connection and that the shot is not safe.

All in all, it is up to you whether you decide to get the shot or not but my advice is to do your research first. If you are in the high risk category than it is important to protect yourself against the flu but for others the best defense may be just being more aware of your surroundings. Avoid people with the flu, wash your hands regularly, eat a well balanced diet and drink lots of water to keep hydrated.