THE FLU SHOT-????

It is true that a vaccination will not protect against every strain of flu b/c the virus does mutate continuously. The vaccines are reformulated annually based what strains of flu are likely to be most prevalent.
I don't know about "Puerto Rican Sweatshops", but Big Pharma does have a well deserved reputation for all sorts of malfeasance. Capitalism provides us with a good deal of protection from tainted vaccines; manufacturers fear getting sued, and product liability lawyers are hungrily vigilant for a chance to institute legal proceedings against anyone.

All that aside, there are numerous peer reviewed studies showing the effectiveness of flu vaccinations.

It is true that a vaccination will not protect against every strain of flu b/c the virus does mutate continuously. Originally Posted by chuckles

Yes, I agree, vaccination is not 100% proof against the flu. It won't even give 100% protection against even the flu strains it's made for.

A condom won't always prevent HIV or other STD's.
Proper screening won't prevent all bad clients.
Locking your front door won't prevent every possible break in to your home.
A seat belt won't save your life in every single accident.
A smoke detector won't always save your life in case of a fire.
Eating healthy and exercising won't prevent every heart attack or cancer.
A good anti-virus program won't prevent every possible computer virus.
Not drinking and driving won't prevent all car accidents.

They're all still really good ideas.

I had the "stronger" flu shot given to me at the local Walgreens. Apparently, they have the "normal" vaccine and the "stronger" version that had H1N1. Both vaccines may not protect you 100%, but it's a no-brainer. You get the shot and take your chances. Spending $37 for a little peace of mind and having the odds play in your favor is a good thing. The calculus is simple.

No need to worry about dying from the flu unless your immune system is compromised, for example, elderly and newborn people, also HIV/AIDS victims.

However, to avoid 2 weeks of being miserable, it's a good idea to go ahead and get the shot.

I for one have to get the shot because my employer requires it. I would get it even if I wasn't required. I had the flu once; never want to get it again.

I have to disagree with your post, Dantonio100. Anyone COULD die from the flu. Those who are compromised, just have higher risks.

If you have ever almost died from the flu, you would understand.

I am flu and cold and sickness-free.

But, I almost died from the flu in 2004 (when shots were not available until february that year). It was quite a nasty surprise to be so sick.

It can happen to anyone, it is just a matter of how the virus attacks you at the time.

Stay well, y'all. Handwashing and avoidance of sickness does wonders for prevention.

And, please stay home, sick people, you could save someone else's life

No need to worry about dying from the flu unless your immune system is compromised, for example, elderly and newborn people, also HIV/AIDS victims. Originally Posted by Dantonio100@yahoo.com

Absolutely wrong. Especially with some strains of H1N1. Sometimes H1N1 triggers a "cytokine storm," where your immune system goes crazy and attacks your own body. Cytokine storms are even worse if you have a "strong" immune system.

Even with a "healthy" immune system, it's not an on/off thing. Even if you have a "healthy" immune system in general, your particular genes and antibodies may provide no protection against a particular strain of flu.

Your odds may be better, but it's by no means something to ignore.