Influenza, or flu as it is most commonly referred to, is respiratory condition that is extremely contagious. Being able to take the flu shot gives many people a greater chance of staying healthy during cold and flu season.
Even though the shot does not guarantee escaping it completely, the vaccine is relatively painless and increases the chance that even if you get the flu, it will be a milder case.
But there are many who should avoid it because of an immune system, which for whatever reason is not strong enough to handle it. If you find yourself in one of the following 5 categories, you should find options other than the flu shot this year.
Infants Under 6 months--Your baby's immune system is not yet fully developed, and as such is placed at risk if given the shot. One of the biggest differences between a cold and the flu is fever. If your child develops a fever, consult your pediatrician immediately to determine if it is in fact the flu and get help with ways to deal with it.
Cancer Patient Receiving Chemotherapy or Radiation--Both of these methods of treating cancer involve killing cancer cells and good cells too. It is these good cells that, under normal circumstances, are able to fight off germs and infection. Because the number of cells is greatly decreased with treatments, your body may not be unable to respond normally to the flu shot.
Are Allergic to Eggs--Since the viruses that are given in the shot are cultivated in the eggs of hens, they can cause a sever threat to those who are allergic to eggs. If you have had a severe reaction previously from the shot, you should consult with your physician before trying it again.
Those Who Are Ill--If you currently have a fever or cold, you should wait until you are completely well before getting the vaccine. Although you cannot get the flu from the shot because the viruses that is contains are inactive, waiting can increase your chances of avoiding complications.
Those Who Have Had Guillain-Barre Disease--This is a disease in which the body's immune system treats the soft tissue around the brain and spinal cord. An extremely small percentage of people develop this disease as a result of the vaccine and taking the shot may also increase chances of the disease reoccurring. Be sure to consult with your physician before getting the shot if you have this condition or have had it in the past.
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