What Happened to the Flu Vaccine Shortage? Back in October 2004, the United States lost almost half of its expected 100 million doses of the flu vaccine, which prompted the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to encourage recommendations to each state, suggesting that doses of the vaccine be restricted to high-risk groups only. However, it is becoming apparent that perhaps this "panic attack" was a little too dramatic. It seems that, due to a mild flu season, the demand for the country's "limited doses" of the vaccine was less than anticipated. In fact, the demand was so low that some states are actually loosening restrictions regarding who gets a shot. Those states that have taken such action include: * Michigan and Utah: Lifted all restrictions; Michigan has about 170,000 available doses * Minnesota: Opened up the flu vaccine to those 50 and older, among others * Massachusetts: Dropped the lowest receiving age limit from 75 to 65, as well as lightened a few other restrictions * Nebraska: Traded 4,000 flu-shot doses with Missouri for measles, mumps and rubella vaccine Further, only weeks ago a Washington-based company that holds immunization clinics vaccinated 100 clients a day at its office -- now it vaccinates only 20 people on a daily basis. USA Today December 13, 2004 Dr. Mercola's Comment: All of this news doesn't surprise me at all, considering public health officials were reassuring Americans that getting a flu shot is not a life-or-death matter. Fact is, the flu shot does NOT prevent illness in most people but actually does just the opposite -- it weakens the immune system and makes you more predisposed to the illness. Also, it is important to understand that people are dying from the flu because they are already sick and have compromised immune systems. Thus, the ultimate treatment for the flu is PROACTIVE PREVENTION. I have compiled a list of seven guidelines to help you prevent and fight the flu this winter. I suggest printing this list off and posting it somewhere in your home where you and your family will see it on a daily basis. By doing so, everyone in your family will be aware of the healthy alternatives and preventatives to the flu. Dr. Mercola's Guidelines to Preventing the Flu 1. Eat a healthy diet and avoid sugar 2. Get enough rest 3. Eat fresh garlic regularly 4. Use an effective tool to help you address the stress in your life 5. Wash your hands regularly 6. Take fish oil/cod liver oil 7. Exercise regularly The bottom line: Lead a healthy lifestyle year round. To help you get on the right track to doing so, I suggest reading my book, TOTAL HEALTH Program, and implementing my diet in your life. If you do, chances are you'll never have to worry about coming down with the flu again! Also, I highly recommend the simple five-step Clenzology Advanced Hygiene System, which focuses on superior cleaning of the areas of your body that are most susceptible to the flu -- your hands, face, ears, nose and mouth. This hygiene kit is simple to use and only takes a matter of minutes, which makes it ideal for families with young children. Most importantly, the Clenzology soap is not antibacterial and it is capable of reaching the tens of thousands of germs on the backs and palms of the hands, on the fingers and under the fingernails. PLEASE NOTE: The facial solutions in this kit must be diluted as directed before use. If you are pregnant or have a history of thyroid problems consult a physician before using this product. |
