Hospitals across the United States are filled with flu sufferers. Dr. Oz talked to a panel of infectious disease experts on the Jan. 25 episode of “The Dr. Oz Show.” The famous doctor asked the experts to weigh in on the flu shot.
Research on the effectiveness of this year’s influenza vaccination show that it is only 60% effective. Hundreds of people who received the flu shot have still become very sick with the flu. However, two of the experts Dr. Oz interviewed still recommend the flu shot for everyone who is over six months of age and not allergic to the vaccine.
On the other hand, the other two panel participants weren’t as enthusiastic. One doctor said she only recommends her patients over 65 or with chronic health conditions get the flu shot. She does not get it herself. The final expert on the panel said he believes in freedom of choice and that it is up to each individual to do their research and make their own choice. However, he doesn’t see the benefit it getting it himself.
Dr. Oz then weighed in with his opinion on the flu shot. He said despite it not being as effective as we’d like, it is still the best course of prevention. He recommends the influenza vaccine for everyone over six months old, even young and healthy people.
Dr. Oz said everyone getting the influenza vaccine will reduce it from spreading. There is also some research that suggests flu symptoms are less severe in those who do contract the flu after getting the shot than those who weren’t vaccinated at all.
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