Vaccination vs. "Toughing it Out" (Flu)

[xxngdaukhoxx]

I should be getting a influenza vaccination soon. But I have a few questions. Based on testimonials that I have heard, it seems that people don't contract influenza until they receive the vaccine and they become more susceptible for infection after receiving the vaccination.

Case 1: A woman mid-thirties working for a hospital facility is asked to receive a free flu shot. This would be her first. She has never had the flu. After she receives the vaccination, she undergoes a week of misery as influenza takes over. She fully recovers within 4-6 weeks and is now okay

With this in mind, I have never received the vaccination. I have never had the flu. should I get the vaccination? I have a history of an unknown inflammatory disease, hypertension, neovascularization in the eyes, severe band keratopathy, and is currently undergoing treatment for inactive, incontagious tuberculosis infection in my abdomen. I have had a laporatomy, laprosopy, and several vitrectomies. I am 15.  

[AshleyLynn]

Actually...that's the opposite advice someone should receive. If they are at a higher risk of contracting the flu, they are the ones that SHOULD be immunized. That's why immunocompromised patients, geriatric, pediatric, etc. people are all encouraged to have the vaccine in the first place, because their bodies need the assistance in helping their bodies create antibodies that will "learn" when to turn on and fight the infection if/when the body comes into contact again with this "foreign invader".

Talk to your doctor, I bet they'd tell you the same thing. You SHOULD get the Flu vaccine. Even though it's late in the season...late is better than never.

Best of luck,
Ashley

[xxngdaukhoxx]

Thanks, this was very helpful.

[kjmomma]

The flu vaccine is a "live" (but weakened) vaccine, meaning it's the actual live virus itself.  So your body is actually being vaccinated with the flu virus & a person can very well contract the flu from this vaccine.  And, there is still mercury in some of the flu vaccine brands.  

Based on what you've mentioned, about your health history....I would not recommend getting this vaccine.