 To vax or not to vax...that is the question, especially during flu season. Let’s talk real numbers.
“Recent studies by CDC researchers and other researchers suggest that flu vaccination usually reduces the risk of influenza illness by 40% to 60% among the overall population when the vaccine viruses are like the ones spreading in the community.” In the last 15 years, efficacy has ranged from 10% (2004-2005) to 60% (2010-2011). The vaccine is developed prior to flu season based on speculation of which viruses will circulate each year. The 2018-2019 flu vaccines were 29% effective. Statistics are not yet available for the 2019-2020 season, for obvious reasons. Flumist (live attenuated virus) was previously removed from the market due to poor performance, with 3% effectiveness. It should also not be given to children with a history of asthma or wheezing and can increase the risk of hospitalization in those patients. Flumist is available in limited quantities this year. There are NINE different injectable flu vaccines on the market this year. All of the injectable formulations are available in prefilled single dose syringes. THIS IS YOUR BEST OPTION if you choose to or are required to receive a flu vaccine! Single dose preparations of the flu vaccines either do not contain Thimerosal or it has been filtered out. Multidose vials contain 25 mcg of Mercury per 0.5 ml dose. Wonder why mercury matters? I always encourage my clients and patients’ parents to learn their available flu vaccine options and read the vaccine insert. See below. Informed consent, anyone? FluMist vaccine insert: https://www.fda.gov/media/83072/download Afluria vaccine insert: https://www.fda.gov/media/117022/download Fluad vaccine insert: https://www.fda.gov/media/94583/download Fluarix vaccine insert: https://www.fda.gov/media/79278/download Flublok (egg free) vaccine insert: https://www.fda.gov/media/123144/download Flucelvax vaccine insert: https://www.fda.gov/media/115862/download FluLaval vaccine insert: https://www.fda.gov/media/115785/download Fluzone vaccine insert: https://www.fda.gov/media/119856/download Have you heard the phrase “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”? Stay tuned for my natural winter wellness regimen! Helping my tribe ditch toxins and remain above the wellness line is my passion!
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