From Google News

It's coming up on flu season and there are signs everywhere about getting a flu shot.

Someone asked me recently about the flu shot and whether it is good or bad for you. Although getting a flu shot is an individual decision and should be discussed with your doctor, I will write about some of the facts regarding flu shots.

1. Can the flu shot give me the flu? The answer is no. The flu shot is made from a dead version of the flu so it will not give you the flu. The nasal spray version is a very weakened virus that does not have the strength to give you influenza.

2. The flu shot is recommended for those with compromised respiratory systems, including COPD and asthma as well as those with diabetes. It is recommended for anyone over the age of 65 and for pregnant women. It is also recommended for teachers, caregivers and health care professionals.

3. The flu shot contains Thimerosal, which is a mercury-based preservative. This is only contained in the multi-use virus. If you get a single shot vial there is no Thimerosal in there. Mercury stays in the body so if you get a flu shot every year mercury will build up in your system.

4. The flu shot is not guaranteed to keep you from getting the flu. There are many different influenza viruses and the shot cannot contain all of them. Also, the viruses mutate or change on a regular basis.

The Centers for Disease Control recommends that anyone who has had a severe reaction to previous influenza vaccines should not get the flu vaccine. Others who should not receive the shots are children younger than 6 months of age; anyone who has a severe allergy to chicken eggs; and people who have a moderate to severe illness with fever.

The flu season is unpredictable and can start as early as October and can last as late as May. The shot takes two weeks to work so if you choose to get the vaccine you want to get one a couple of weeks before the season begins if possible.

Thanksgiving kicks off the holiday season — a time when people are getting together socially and there is more hugging and shaking hands. The flu virus can be spread more during this season, so if you choose to get the flu shot try and do so before Thanksgiving.

Stay healthy.

Newman, of Geneva, has a bachelor's degree in dance. She is a certified personal trainer and has been a massage therapist for 16 years. She welcomes questions and may be reached  at alisonnewman15@ yahoo.com.