BLOBBY'S BLOG

FLU SHOT

I did the deed and got my flu shot. I always do though.

I am surprised how many people out there never get it and for all the wrong reasons. Oddly enough, "I don't like shots" has never come up with anyone I know how has refused to get one. The biggest misconception is that "I got the flu right after getting the shot".

One might get the flu right after the shot, but it's not because of the shot. Any epidemiologist will tell you it takes up to six weeks to take effect (which is why you get it now - before the flu season of January-March hits!). But here is a good reason to get the injection: you prevent others from getting the flu!!

Yes, you heard me right. You probably have an equal chance of carrying the virus without getting sick, but without knowing it can pass it along to those you live and/or work with. This includes the young, elderly and immunosuppressed.

Take a look at hospital statistics during the flu season - occupancy rates are at their highest, average length of stay increases, which in turn clogs the emergency departments which forces them to go on diversion (i.e. close) due to overwhelming patient volume and basic gridlock of trying to get a patient bed that doesn't exist. When looking at the mortality rates of the elderly during a hospital admission, they die of complications due to the flu.... COPD, asthma, etc. Let's not even get into the healthcare costs.

So, I got mine....for me and for others. I have never had such a painless shot either..and I have had some ouchy flu shots before. This one I didn't even know happened...honest. They gave me a piece of candy aftewards too - but I tossed it because it was sugar free. Why bother? I also got it for free. Look around - many places will give them for no or minimal cost.

Another word of advice? Take one ibuprofen and one tylenol afterward. That will really lessen any soreness that might accompany the shot down the road. A nurse told me that years ago and it works...at least for the first day.

Be a sport. Get a shot.