By: Laura Thompson
Updated: Oct. 20, 2023
Originally Published: Oct. 17, 2023
When I hear parents express skepticism about vaccines, the arguments often sound like this: “I’d never let my child be injected with that poison!” or “I only feed my kids organic superfoods, so they’re immune to all diseases, including those preventable by vaccines.” While these claims lack scientific backing—vaccines have a long history of safety and no amount of health food will fend off a virus—there’s a common thread in these arguments: they focus solely on the individual or their child.
However, vaccines, including the flu shot, are not just a personal choice; they impact the wider community. With flu season approaching, many will be making the choice about getting vaccinated—or opting out, as nearly half of the population tends to do.
I used to be indifferent about the flu shot, thinking, “It’s just the flu; everyone gets it. Why bother with a vaccine? What’s next, a shot for the common cold?” But then I became a parent, and my perspective shifted dramatically. With two children who have asthma, I’ve witnessed firsthand the toll that respiratory viruses can take. I’ve seen my kids struggle to breathe, their chests heaving as they fight off infections. You can bet I ensure they receive their flu shots every year because, for some, the flu isn’t just an inconvenience—it can be deadly.
As a parent of children with health vulnerabilities, I not only prioritize their vaccinations but also hope that everyone in our community does the same. It’s not just about my family; it’s about protecting the elderly, individuals with compromised immune systems, infants who can’t yet be vaccinated, pregnant women at risk of complications, and healthcare workers who care for these vulnerable populations. The flu vaccine is a collective responsibility.
A nurse named Sarah Jennings, who works on the frontlines, has shared poignant stories about the serious consequences of the flu. She emphasizes the concept of “herd immunity” and the necessity for even the healthiest individuals to get vaccinated to protect those who can’t. “The flu shot isn’t always about you,” she states. “It’s about safeguarding those around you.”
Her stories serve as a sobering reminder that the flu is not merely a seasonal nuisance. It can lead to severe health outcomes, including death. In fact, the flu is among the top ten causes of death in the U.S. During the 2017-2018 flu season alone, 48.8 million people contracted the virus, 959,000 were hospitalized, and 79,400 lost their lives due to flu-related complications. Vulnerable groups, including the elderly and young children, are especially at risk.
Some might argue that flu vaccines have low effectiveness rates, but even a 30% effectiveness means a significantly lower risk of illness. Moreover, research shows that vaccinated individuals who do contract the flu typically experience milder symptoms and are less likely to be hospitalized or die. Imagine the impact if everyone in our community received their flu shots; even imperfect vaccines can substantially reduce circulation of the virus, making us all safer.
So, let’s set aside misinformation and prioritize our collective health. Get your flu shot—not just for your own sake or your children’s, but for everyone in your community. It’s a small act of kindness that can save lives.
If you’re interested in related topics, check out our post on home insemination kits, which explores various family-building options, and for those looking to boost their fertility, visit Make a Mom for expert advice.
In summary, the flu shot is a crucial tool for protecting not just individual health, but community well-being. By getting vaccinated, we contribute to herd immunity, safeguarding our most vulnerable populations.
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