Each year I get my seasonal flu shot. The truth is I never want to get the shot, but I don't want to get the flu either. I tell my kids it doesn't hurt, but they know better now. I get vaccinated because I am hopeful that developing immunity against the flu will help keep my family and friends healthier too.
This summer my son got the H1N1 virus. He was sick in bed for about a week, but because of an underlying health condition I am very grateful he did not become even sicker with complications from the virus.
I figure the healthier I stay, the better for my family. So that is why I've already had my seasonal flu shot and will be getting the H1N1 shot too.
I am not a medical specialist and this year's unusual flu outbreak is really a big mystery to me. I have plenty of concerns and questions about the two types of flu and their vaccines. I found these articles helpful:
• WSJ.com article: Two Flu Vaccines, Lots of Questions
• Mayo Clinic article: Flu shot: Your best bet for avoiding influenza
• Chicago Tribune: Swine flu vaccines are safe and time-tested, experts assert
Check them out. And talk to your doctors for their recommendations about which types of vaccines are best for you.
