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 By Dr. Scott Olson, ND