Discussing the effectivity of the flu shot

A problem plaguing the health of the population every winter has become a growing institution preaching a simple solution. In fact, pharmaceutical companies have made this solution available within a radius of ten minutes walking distance from any location in the downtown Toronto area.

The flu, short for influenza virus, is a highly contagious viral infection that attacks the respiratory system. It causes fatigue, fever, headaches and spreads easily through contact. In some cases, it can even be deadly to those with weak immune systems, particularly seniors, young children and pregnant women. Your health practitioner might say that getting the flu shot is the most frequent preventable cause of death.

It is a frightening picture with a relatively ‘simple’ solution. Merely visit your local drugstore and get your flu vaccine every season. Never mind the fact that it does not provide you with long-term immunity and that scientists are not one hundred per cent sure if the vaccine will be effective that season. You can’t blame them, because in order for them to get it to you on time they have to predict six months in advance that it will be dominant. But what if it’s a rapidly adapting and changing virus? The effectiveness of the flu shot this year is only 50 per cent-a high number, unlike the shockingly low infectivity of the 2014/15 season.

As it happens, the single most important tactic to survive the season unscathed is tied to your immune system. It is not necessarily the virus that destroys your life; it is your weak immune system that does not allow you to combat it. Those with already weakened immune systems (due to stress, lack of good nutrition, etc.) carry the possibility of falling sick after receiving the shot.

The human body is naturally furnished with all the top-notch mechanisms it needs to ward off viruses and germs. If it falls weak, viruses from your environment- whether or not they come from the flu shot- start to gain ground in the daily battles they wage. Falling sick is the outcome of your body losing ground, and its desperate attempts in trying to recuperate and defend itself against the enemy.  That is why vitamin-enriched foods are necessary when you are sick, because they provide the arsenal to your body.

The secret to never falling sick is dependent on the strength of your immune system. To keep it strong and prepared for the upcoming flu season, you must incorporate minor changes in your life. Follow these simple tips and minimize your chances of getting sick, without the flu shot.

Feed your body properly. Don’t reach out to the easy energy fix. Eat your veggies and fruits.

Just Move. Strengthening your body strengthens your immune system. Even walking around your apartment for a minute every hour counts. Stand on the subway. Take the stairs. They are better alternatives to inactivity, and will fortify your immune system.

Enjoy the Sun. It provides you with Vitamin D, a crucial ingredient in the fight against viruses.

Sleep at night. While you may have an assignment or test the next day, nothing you ‘learn’ after 2 a.m. will be processed if you are exhausted in the morning. Nighttime is the only period your body and brain are allowed to rest and recharge. Allow it this time for the greater good.

Stay Away From Unnecessary Stress. Trust me, you will not even remember why you were stressing a week after. It doesn’t help you in the slightest and ruins your ability to concentrate and function.

Wash your hands. Please.

Featured image courtesy of Marta Perehinets