I debate this issue every year. I have looked up things like you did. Ten years ago I got the flu, type A Asian. I was sick for 4 months. I have auto immune conditions, and don't really know if it hurts or helps. I just know I want to cut down the risk of getting the flu again. I got my shot the last few years. I don't know if we are getting the truth about the strains either. Hard decision when you are sick to begin with. ginnie