Thousands stand in line for Man-Bear-Pig Swine SARS Flu Vaccine

So the swine flu vaccine has been distributed and now people are showing up in droves to get the new shots.  People are scared by the news of the H1N1 virus as it spreads and they are trying to head it off.  Then I hear people say how stupid it is because more people die of regular flu every year, and there is no need to get vaccinated.  So what should everyone do?  Should we get vaccinated or not?  Well, here is my 23 cents on the topic.

There is one simple fact, people are going to get the flu, be it the new flu or flu classic.  People will miss work.  What is more scary about this new one is the fact, while we have some natural defense against classic flu, most of us have no core defense against the new flu.  We just don't have the anti-bodies.  Fortunately the mortality rate is pretty low, but the economic impact of the flu has yet to be seen.  If one in five people miss work because of the flu that has a huge impact, especially when children are involved.  And, there is where the real risk is, economic.  So far, we aren't all going to die, and we will not see a resurgence of something like the Spanish Flu, but there will be a real impact.  That's were the vaccine has to come in, especially since there isn't enough to spread around.  High risk groups need to be protected, just like always, but families need to look at it seriously as something they may need.  They have to accept that they won't die from it, but may miss weeks of work.  Depending on how fast it spreads it may mean more time off.  Can the family afford that?  Just looking at the probabilities, that decision has to come down to the individual person and family.  Then you look at those who will be treating the sick.  That's when things get different.  If you will be caring for a multitude of people who may have the flu, then yes, you should get it to protect yourself and your patients.  No I do not think we can force people to get the shot, but we should reassign those who refuse to other, less vulnerable, areas.  

So get the shot or not, you take the risk yourself, just don't put others at risk. If you are sick stay home.

But all that changes if the virus mutates into something more virulent, then you should run for the hills and emerge 28 days later to see what has survived.

-Uncle Walter

Comments

[Olivia]

It has mercury in it.

[Uncle Walter]

This is true, the flu vaccine has Thimerosal as a preservative in it. Thimerosal is about 49% ethylmercury. Current research suggests there is no risk to people from this chemical, however there are standing concerns for children and a Thimerosal free vaccine is available for them.

[Terri]

Another aspect to consider: most schools only allow a limited amount of time off. If a child gets the swine flu and is quarantined at home, will they then fail the school year?

[La Femme]

Unlikely. The schools generally allow the kids to make up some or most of the work from home. Heck, they let the kids do that if they miss more than 3 or so days for vacation. When it's excused by a doctor it's even easier to get help from the school.