How Does This Year's Flu Shot Stack Up
By
Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Posted November 9, 2024
As the temperatures dip and the holidays arrive, we spend more time indoors in close quarters with other folks.
And, of course, this allows the flu to spread like wildfire.
The latest data about this year’s flu vaccine is in, and it might not be what you were hoping.
But before you skip your shot this season, there’s something important you need to understand…
Recent findings from our neighbors in the Southern Hemisphere are raising eyebrows about this year’s flu vaccine effectiveness.
And while the news isn’t exactly what we’d like to see, it’s crucial to understand what this REALLY means for your health.
Here’s what the latest research reveals:
- Vaccine effectiveness dropped to 34.5 percent (down from 51.9 percent last year)
- Protection is even lower for high-risk groups
- Different flu strains are dominating this season
But here’s what makes this situation PARTICULARLY concerning…
The drop in effectiveness is likely linked to a shift in which flu strains are making the rounds. Last year, the H1N1 strain was the big player. This year, we’re seeing more of the sneaky H3N2 variant.
You can think of it as a game of viral musical chairs, and this year, the music changed unexpectedly.
So, should you skip the shot?
As always, this is a personal choice you should make with the input of your own doctor. However, the fact is, even with reduced effectiveness, the vaccine CAN still be helpful for specific groups.
You need to consider your personal risk factors. For example, do you…
- Live in a crowded area?
- Have chronic health conditions?
- Take immunosuppressing medications?
If you answered yes to any of those questions, you should consider getting a flu shot, even if it’s not perfect.
If you answered no, you must decide if the risk reduction outweighs the inconvenience.
But either way, EVERYONE should be building up their immune defenses with this powerful combo…
- vitamin D (3,000-5,000 IUs daily)
- berberine, turmeric, and olive leaf supplements
- a probiotic
- a mixed polyphenol supplement
Plus, remember these practical steps: Wash your hands frequently, maintain healthy sleep habits, and stay physically active.
The bottom line? Get the shot if you’re at risk, but don’t rely on it alone.
Your best defense is a good offense… and that means using EVERY tool at your disposal to stay healthy this flu season.
P.S. Six simple tips to FIGHT cold and flu.
Source:
“CDC Seasonal Flu Vaccine Effectiveness Studies,” CDC. gov
Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.
View More Free Articles
Four Carbs that Could Add YEARS to Your Life
You’ve likely been avoiding carbs like the plague. Health gurus, fitness influencers, and diet books have convinced you that carbs are the enemy—that they spike your blood sugar, pack on pounds, and fast-track you to diabetes. So you’ve eliminated bread, sworn off pasta, and feel guilty just touching a piece of fruit. But what if...
Upgrade from Bananas and Apples to These Powerhouse Fruits
I’m often asked which fruits are the best. So, let’s talk about it. I’ll cut right to the chase: berries win this contest hands down. If you’re limiting your options to apples and bananas, you’re missing out on a universe of superior antioxidant power. Those everyday fruits are like bringing a knife to a gunfight...
The REAL Reason Americans are Getting “Fatter”
You’ve heard it a thousand times: “Americans are getting fatter because we’re lazy.” We sit at desks all day. We binge-watch Netflix instead of hitting the gym. We’ve traded physical labor for sedentary lifestyles. It’s a tidy explanation for why obesity has skyrocketed in developed countries. There’s just one problem—it’s completely wrong… A groundbreaking Duke...
Mailbag: Room Won't Stop Spinning? Do THIS First
“I’m dealing with vertigo issues, lightheadedness, and dizziness. As recently as this last Saturday I had multiple occurrences throughout the day. Is there anything I can do for this? I’m 69 and in good health. I work out 4 to 5 times a week.” —Spinning Hi Spinning, When patients approach me with similar complaints, I...
Hidden Number Secretly Sabotages Male Performance
Guys (and gals that love them), we should talk. You know how we’ve always been told that bedroom troubles are just part of getting older—that we just need to live with them? Well, it turns out that’s not true. Scientists recently wrapped up a six-year study that followed over 100 healthy men, and the findings...
Shocking Study Links Kids' Snacks to Dangerous Early Puberty
Kids are growing up in a world vastly different from the one we knew. Back in our day, if a child wanted something sweet, it was a piece of candy or a homemade cookie. Today’s kids are surrounded by products filled with artificial sweeteners that didn’t even exist when we were raising our own children....
Outdated Vitamin Guidelines Put Your Brain at Risk
If you’re like most people, you probably don’t think twice about vitamin B12—until your doctor mentions it during a routine blood test. But new research published in the Annals of Neurology suggests we need to pay closer attention to this crucial nutrient—especially as we age. Turns out, current guidelines for this essential nutrient might be...
The TRUTH About Supplement "Liver Dangers" REVEALED
There’s been a lot of buzz lately about liver damage from supplements—so, let’s talk about it. Reports of supplement-induced liver injuries have some folks wondering, “Could my natural remedy actually be harming me?” But before you toss all your supplements in the trash, let’s separate fact from fear—and talk about how to use supplements safely....
The 10,000 Steps LIE That's Ruining Your Health
I’ll be honest—I’m a little sick of the 10,000-steps theory. You know, the one that insists you need to take at least that many steps daily to stay healthy? You won’t believe where that claim originally came from. The 10,000-steps theory wasn’t handed down from the fitness gods on stone tablets. It originated from a...
“Brain Games” Failed You? Try THIS For Better Memory Instead
You know all those brain-training apps, supplements, and “miracle” memory-boosters that promise to keep your brain sharp as you age? Here’s the truth… There IS evidence they support brain health—and that’s why I’ll be the first to recommend them. But they aren’t the most powerful brain-boosting tool available to you. Another surprising solution has earned...