Is Annual Flu Vaccination Necessary for Your Health?

Q: Is Annual Flu Vaccination Necessary for Your Health?

Hello： 1. <br>Vaccines do not work by using a "like cures like" approach; instead, they stimulate the body to develop immunity against pathogens, reducing the risk of infection and preventing severe illness following an infection. <br>2. <br>The influenza vaccine has been adminis

Is it necessary to get the flu vaccine every year?

Hello Doctor: My boyfriend is 36 years old and works as an engineer in a tech company.
The company offers a benefit where employees can register for a limited number of free flu vaccinations (Fluarix Tetra) each year.
He has been trying to secure a spot for the vaccination for about four years, only skipping last year due to the focus on COVID-19 vaccinations.
Previously, he didn't think much about getting vaccinated; he just felt that it was a good opportunity to get a free vaccine, especially since paying out of pocket can be quite expensive, so I never discouraged him.
However, since the emergence of the COVID-19 vaccine, there have been many claims suggesting that "vaccines are a form of poison." This has made me concerned that the flu vaccine might also be a type of toxin.
Additionally, my boyfriend's health has been declining in recent years, and I'm unsure if it's due to his long working hours or the annual flu vaccinations.

I would like to ask you, Doctor: My boyfriend, who is 36, occasionally experiences low blood pressure and palpitations, but is mostly normal.
Does he really need to get the flu vaccine every year? Could continuing to receive the flu vaccine annually actually harm his health? Should I support him in continuing to register for the flu vaccine each year? (The type of vaccine provided for free by the tech company is Fluarix Tetra, and regarding the COVID-19 vaccine, he has received three doses of BNT.) Thank you for taking the time to read this lengthy message and for your detailed response.

Ni Ni, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/10/24

Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine

Hello: 1.
Vaccines do not work by using a "like cures like" approach; instead, they stimulate the body to develop immunity against pathogens, reducing the risk of infection and preventing severe illness following an infection.
2.
The influenza vaccine has been administered for over a decade, and its safety and efficacy are generally well-established.
Your boyfriend's declining health should not be attributed to receiving the influenza vaccine annually.
3.
Given your boyfriend's age and the absence of any specific chronic illnesses, he is not considered to be at high risk for influenza infection and subsequent severe complications.
While it is not strictly necessary for him to receive the influenza vaccine, it is still advisable to consider vaccination if he wishes to reduce his risk of infection.

Reply Date: 2023/10/24

More Info

Annual flu vaccination is a topic of considerable importance, especially in the context of public health and individual well-being. Your boyfriend, being a 36-year-old engineer, is in a demographic that generally has a lower risk of severe complications from influenza compared to older adults or those with chronic health conditions. However, there are several factors to consider when evaluating the necessity of annual flu vaccinations.

Firstly, it is essential to clarify that vaccines, including the flu vaccine, are not "toxins" or harmful substances. Instead, they are designed to stimulate the immune system to recognize and combat specific pathogens, thereby reducing the risk of infection and severe illness. The flu vaccine, such as Fluarix Tetra, has been extensively studied and is considered safe for the vast majority of individuals. The notion that vaccines are "toxic" is a misconception that has been debunked by numerous scientific studies.

Regarding your boyfriend's health concerns, such as low blood pressure and occasional palpitations, these symptoms are not typically associated with receiving the flu vaccine. It is more likely that his symptoms are related to lifestyle factors, such as long working hours and insufficient rest, rather than the vaccine itself. Chronic stress and fatigue can significantly impact overall health, leading to various physical symptoms. Therefore, it is crucial to address lifestyle habits, including sleep, nutrition, and stress management, alongside vaccination.

As for the necessity of annual flu vaccinations, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone aged six months and older receive a flu vaccine each year, with rare exceptions. This recommendation is based on the fact that flu viruses evolve rapidly, and the vaccine is updated annually to provide the best possible protection against circulating strains. Even if your boyfriend is generally healthy, getting vaccinated can help prevent the flu, which can lead to complications even in otherwise healthy individuals.

Moreover, annual vaccination not only protects him but also contributes to community immunity, helping to protect vulnerable populations who may be at higher risk for severe illness from influenza. This is particularly important in a workplace setting, where close contact with colleagues can facilitate the spread of the virus.

In conclusion, while your boyfriend may not be in a high-risk category for severe flu complications, receiving the flu vaccine annually is still advisable. It is a proactive measure to safeguard his health and the health of those around him. Supporting him in continuing to get vaccinated is a positive step, especially considering the benefits of vaccination in preventing illness and promoting overall public health. If he has concerns about his health or the vaccine, it may be beneficial for him to consult with a healthcare provider who can provide personalized advice based on his medical history and current health status.

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