When I get a flu shot, my immune system is triggered in a major way and I go through weeks of heightened autoimmune reactions, which includes increased pain.

I had the flu three years in a row and did well with the flu medication during two of three times. There was one time I thought it was the end and I was taken to the hospital by ambulance twice and had to go several more times to the ER, yet by private transport. I was in the ER most of the night for IV treatment of flu complications for a total of 6 different admissions.

My doctor was finally candid earlier this year, admitting it's a toss as to whether or not the correct strain is in the flu vaccine and as to whether or not the vaccine will work at all. His entire office had the flu shot last year and every single one of them -- he and his staff -- were out with the flu.

I asked him why he pushes the flu shot if he feels this is the truth about the flu shot? He'd responded giving/getting the shot was also a chance at not contracting the flu, as he'd smirked. He'd added: It's a shot in the dark, yet also public health policy.

I am undecided. Sometimes, my rheumatologist mandates a shot be taken IF we are planning on any type of immunosuppressive therapy. There is still time for her to do so this year.

I guess I should decide soon.

DejaVu