If you don't mind me asking, where did you hear that the flu shot hurts your immune system.? That is the last thing I need, as I have a compromised immune system. Several years ago I went on a cruise, came home violenty sick with type A Asian flu. I was down in bed for 6 weeks, and I thought I would die it was so bad. Since then I have been getting my yearly shot. I don't get over infections easily, and that flu scared the be-jeeze out me. I also don't want to hurt my immune system. I am sure trying to do what is in my best intrests. I also live in a high area of tourists! I live on a floating petri dish a small island packed with people from up north who bring their nice colds and flu down here for all of to enjoy. Since it is sunny and warm they want to be outside to "get Well" so they are in all public areas spreading these germs. So I am in a danger zone to catch this stuff. let me know I really am interested about this. ginnie

Hi Ginnie,

I have heard so many mixed reactions when it comes to the flu vaccine. I can only speak from experience. If you go to the CDC website you can learn more about the vaccine.
in pediatrics for six years. I had the flu shot every year because of the high volume of illness. Prior to that I never go the flu shot. Well when I did get it about two weeks later I would get extremely sick. Usually bronchial type illness. I cant say it's the vaccine however to my understanding the flu vaccine is exposing you to the flu so your body makes antibodies so that when you are exposed your body can tell it.... OH HECK NO....

My theory is... the energy it takes for my body to create these antibodies weakens the immune system and then I am introduced to another illness and my reserves are down...so WHAMO!!!

Since I've left Pediatrics I haven't had a flu shot and I've been healthier in the winter time.

Like I said it's a theory but it's one I live by.

I hope you have a healthy winter. We all have enough to deal with. The thought of getting sick scares the heck out of me. I'm not sure how my body will react. GULP...

You did bring up some really valid points. I go today for the shingles vacine. I am terrified of that as some of my neighbors have it. I am going to ask alot of questions before I get this vacine. I am indeed a bit worried about it, as I don't want to "get" the disease from the shot. I don't want to mess up my immune system eithor. As you said we already have enough to worry about. thank you for the information, look out health dept....I have questions....ginnie