Have you made an appointment for your flu shot, yet? I've already gotten
mine and I hope that it protects me from getting sick this winter. As a
substitute teacher, I am exposed to many students who often come to school
when they should be staying at home.
Playing cards in the Clubhouse card rooms or sitting in a packed
theater during a movie or show, it is hard to escape the coughing and
sneezing that exists in a closed environment. Imagine the germs deposited
on a deck of cards or Mah Jongg tiles, when someone sneezes into their
hand and continues playing!
It amazes me how many seniors do not get the flu shot. I understand
that some people have allergies or bad reactions to the injection, but my
doctor insists that is not the norm. According to Health Smart Magazine, fewer than 25% of immunized patients have some redness and/or slight swelling
at the site. Curtis Allen, of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
in Atlanta, says that shots are recommended for adults 50 and older. In
addition, if you have any chronic illness or if you are a caregiver, it is important
that you get the flu vaccine.
This year, there is an abundant supply of flu vaccine. I hope that if you're
reading this, you remember to get yours tomorrow. H1N1 virus immunization
is another topic for another day.

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