Something we all need to do

Just read a post about someone with WLS having influensa, the flu. We all need to make sure we get flu shots. Our systems are too delicate now to handle a good case of the real flu. Now bare in mind, the real flu is not the 24 hour bug that makes you throw up. It is a virus that gets everything and we can get real sick from it. I have gotten the shot for the past 10 years, because I have asthma, but it works. So please, next year, or in Sept/Oct. lets all get the shot. You might have to stand in line somewhere, like I do every year, but it is worth it. End of soap box, returning to normally scheduled postings.

My surgeon does not recommend the flu shot just because we're WLS patients.

Did he say why? I have to get one each year, because of my asthma, I almost died from the flu before. I can't think of why he would say not to get it, in fact I could only see why we should?

If you dont have health issues that weaken your immune system there's no reason to get the shot. You get it for Asthma. I dont have any health issues that warrant me to get one and he said that having WLS is not a reason to start. There are really two camps on flu shots, those who believe you should not start if you dont have a compromised system and those who feel everyone should get one regardless. Personally, I choose not to inject myself with anything (or take a pill) unless its a strong necessity. And am glad I have a surgeon and PCP who agree with this. On a similair note..... I spent some quality time with some of my environmental friends this weekend and we talked a lot about bird flu. The secondary issue is that it may mutate and spread to people. The more immediate issue is that soon (in the next 6 months) they may have to destroy all US poultry and how the sick birds are going to impact the food system. If birds are dropping infected fecal material on crops it will be foods beyond poultry and dairy that are limited and impacted. Imagine no poultry, dairy and grain.....or produce that is tainted...and how it will affect other foods...like cattle who eat the poultry remnants and the grain. This would be a problem for WLS, any kind of tainted food could be horrific to our systems. With that I am increasing my supply of protica, luna bars, canned beans and bottled water.

I get one due to having diabetes. I don't think that having WLS would make a difference.

I am a Public Health Nurse. The CDC reccomends the flu shot yearly for people with health issues and high risk groups. The CDC also reccomends flu shots for healthy people that might come in contact with high risk people- young children, over 65, people with health concerns. Well, that means just about everyone. If we can reach the 'hurd' we will protect those that cannot receive the shot. This is just what I believe to be true, each one of us must make up our own mind about the yearly flu shot. Thanks for reading, Teresa

Teresa I work with seniors in a snf, asst living, independent living facility and every year they recommend it and they give the shots......t.b. shots are give every year also to meet state requirements....suzan