
How Does This Year's Flu Shot Stack Up
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
50-Cent Nutrient Puts the Brakes on Aging
Scientists discovered a remarkable “anti-aging” solution hiding in plain sight. It isn’t some exotic compound from a remote rainforest or an expensive laboratory creation. It’s a nutrient you can find at any pharmacy for less than the cost of a cup of coffee. The trouble is, most seniors aren’t getting enough of it, which researchers...
The Hidden Brain Risk Lurking in Your Living Room
If you’re reading this while settled into your favorite chair, you might want to consider standing up… New research uncovered something that might surprise you. Sitting too much can literally shrink your brain. But it gets worse… We all know being sedentary isn’t good for our health. However, researchers at Vanderbilt University uncovered something alarming....
“Biohack” Your Life Like a Billionaire?! Here’s How
You’ve probably seen the headlines about the billionaire who spent millions on “biohacking” to try to make himself younger. He measures hundreds of biomarkers and pops dozens of pills daily. And he’s undergoing experimental treatments that cost more than most folks’ houses. It may have left you wondering if regular people like you and I...
Do THIS Daily to Improve Strength, Flexibility, and Endurance
For any couch potatoes out there… I have some exciting news. If you’ve been avoiding exercise because you hate the gym or don’t have the time, that might be about to change. A groundbreaking study reveals how a few simple moves, done daily in your own home, could dramatically improve your fitness—even if you’ve skipped...
Mailbag: A Post-Prostate Cancer Blueprint for a Better Recovery
“My son just got his prostate removed because of cancer. He is doing well and recovering. My question is there any information you can forward with regards to his lifestyle? Are there things he should not eat, things he should be eating, is social drinking a risk, any vitamins that should be on his list?...
The Stroke-Boosting Threat Lurking in YOUR Arteries
We want to take a moment on this Memorial Day to honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation. Their courage, dedication, and selfless commitment to protecting our freedoms will never be forgotten, and their legacy lives on in the country they helped preserve. I’ve warned you...
20-Minute AM Hack Will Revolutionize How You Wake Up
If you feel like you’re in a fog for the first hour after your alarm goes off, you’re not alone. Mornings can be rough. That groggy, disoriented feeling isn’t just annoying—it’s a real physiological phenomenon called “sleep inertia.” And it can drag on for up to two hours after waking, even if you’ve had a...
Weekly Habit QUINTUPLES Your Cancer Risk
Everyone knows that sugar-sweetened sodas aren’t going to win any nutrition awards. That’s not news. But now, a disturbing new study suggests these soft drinks hide a deadly secret. A regular soda habit could do far more damage than just expand your waistline or raise your diabetes risk. The new research reveals these sugary treats...
Unlikely Duo Naturally SLASHES High Blood Pressure
Some things just naturally belong together—such as peanut butter and jelly, salsa and chips, or two peas in a pod. But there’s an unlikely pair that researchers say could do wonders for your heart health. A comprehensive new study from the University of Surrey has revealed that compounds found naturally in tea and chocolate can...
The Surprising Link Between Jaw Tension and Anxiety
Ever catch yourself clenching your jaw when you’re stuck in traffic or waiting for an important phone call? Well, it might tell you something important about what’s happening “upstairs.” Turns out, that jaw tension isn’t just annoying—it’s a direct hotline to your anxiety levels. And most of us don’t even realize we’re doing it. I’ve...