Flu Shot or Not?

Many of my readers have asked me to weigh in on the H1N1 vaccination controversy. There are two extreme points of view when it comes to vaccinating for the H1N1/swine flu. The CDC recommends that everyone get the vaccine starting with those most at risk. The other extreme are people who do not believe in vaccines in general, or who do not believe in the flu shot, H1N1. Stories are flying all over the Internet and television news stations. Who should we believe? In the end, you either get the shot or you don’t.

Vaccinations are not without risk and I do believe there is the possibility of vaccinations causing side effects that are not yet known or hard to pin down. Last week, I watched an interview with Desiree Jennings who became permanently disabled following an H1N1 vaccination. While the side effect she experienced is rare, it is certainly cause for concern. While it is a personal decision, I have chosen not to get the flu shot.

Avoid the Flu

Getting germs from someone who has the flu spreads the flu virus. Here are some tips to help you from spreading or getting the flu.

• Avoid touching your face or touching your fingers to your eyes, mouth and nostrils.
• Please do not cough into your hands. This is an obvious way to spread germs!
• Wash hands frequently – 20 seconds is the recommended amount of time.
• Have each family member use a separate hand towel.
• Separate tooth brushes.
• Don’t use anti-bacterial soap – it is not very effective and bad for the environment. In fact, super germs that are resistant to antibiotics can grow in your sink!
• Use alcohol based hand sanitizers. They're a good option when hand washing is not possible
• Use your sleeve or a towel to open public doors

Boost Your Immune System

• Go to your chiropractor or acupuncturist and get a health tune-up
• Get plenty of sleep – when we are tired we are more vulnerable to illness
• Avoid processed carbohydrates and sugar
• Take 2000 IU vitamin D
• Drink plenty of liquids
• Exercise regularly
• Spend time in nature
• Spend meaningful time with family and friends
• Just say no to over-commitment
• Eat healthy foods; plenty of veggies, fish and whole grains
• Do something kind for the person who least expects it

My wish for all of you is to stay healthy and happy!