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In the wake of an approaching winter season and an ever increasingly heightened alert of the H1N1 Virus, the popular debate of rather flu shots are effective or not, has once again arisen. If you look at the many polls taken on this debate, you will find a nearly even split down the middle, with the greater balance weighing in on the side of flu shots indeed, being effective. Furthermore, what research has found is that a number of people on both ends of the spectrum have little understanding of Influenza and the vaccines administered every year to prevent this disease.

It's one thing to have the freedom of your own opinion, but the lack of knowledge in the subject of flu shots when deciding rather or not the flu shot is effective should be considered absolutely unacceptable. After all, deciding rather or not to get the flu shot is an important decision that every member of society needs to make a priority and whatever the decision, it should be an informed one.

One fact commonly known by most is the fact that Influenza can occur from mild to severe, resulting even in death for those who prove to be at greater risk. Elderly folk above 50 years of age as well as infants and pregnant women are among those having greater risks of catching the flu and the possibility of gaining further complications as a result. Any persons with weakened immune systems are also considered to be high risk individuals to the disease.

What Exactly is the Flu Vaccine

The flu Vaccine is made up of a group of dead viruses. Every year the World Health Organization predetermines several strains of viruses (all inactive) to be included in the concoction, that as a whole, makes up the flu vaccines given as a shot and produced around the world each year. Top laboratories around the world work together in helping to choose the different flu strains based on the types of viruses they believe will be in circulation during flu season.

How Does the Vaccine Work

As the concoction of dead viruses are injected into the body, our immune system immediately goes to work and over the process of a couple of weeks produces antibodies to the viruses injected. Once armed with the new antibodies, the body is able to fight off any live strain of the viruses that it may later encounter.

In the United States the flu season lasts from November to April. During these months the flu virus will be circulating somewhere among the population. Although there are several precautions that may be taken to prevent infection of the disease such as washing your hands or using hand sanitizer frequently etc., the flu shot is the best possible solution for protecting oneself against infection from the flu.

Influenza should not be taken lightly as the disease causes 36,000 deaths (mostly in persons 65 years or older) in an average year. Aside from that, 200,000 hospitalizations from the disease are also reported in an average year. Getting the flu shot can not only provide protection for the one receiving it, but protection as well for those around us. So be informed, be safe, and get the flu vaccine.

For more information visit: www.cdc.gov

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