Flu vaccine offers only ‘moderate protection’ at best.
According to new research in the Lancet Infectious Diseases journal, the flu vaccine offers “moderate protection” and is less effective than previously thought. Researchers found that the vaccine often does not match the virus commonly circulating that flu season. The effectiveness of the flu vaccine averaged only 59 percent in young healthy adults, and was as low as 16 percent in some cases. This is of great concern, since healthy young adults have the strongest immune systems, and should obtain the greatest benefit from the flu shot.
Also, there was too little high-quality evidence on how effective the vaccine is in children and the elderly. These are the two groups with the highest risk of flu related death or serious illness.
The flu vaccine can provide moderate protection when the correct strains are included in the vaccine. But, often the wrong strains are included in the vaccine. That being said, the flu vaccine does offer some protection against the flu, which is better than nothing. Though, additional measures such as supporting your immune system can help reduce the risk of coming down with the flu this season.
And remember, you can always get more natural health advice, the latest alternative health breakthroughs and news, plus information about nutrition, alternative remedies and cures and doctors health advice, all free when you sign up for the Bel Marra Newsletter. Visit http://www.belmarra.ca/belmarra_health_news.php now to find out how to start your free subscription.
Processing your request, Please wait....
