Science-Based Medicine gives a little perspective on H1N1 fears
Great article by Steven Novella on H1N1 – the flu, the vaccine, and safety fears. I quote his conclusion below – but read the whole article – as usually his statements are well supported:
While there is uncertainty and reasonable concerns regarding the flu vaccine, and more research is welcome, current evidence is sufficient to recommend that the vaccine is safe and effective. The bottom line with any medical intervention is risk vs benefit. The benefit of the H1N1 vaccine far outweighs the minimal risk.
Further, the more people who get the vaccine the more effective it will be. At this rate, we are unlikely to achieve herd immunity, but everyone who gets vaccinated will not only provide themselves with a level of protection, but will also protect those around them.
It is still too early to tell how severe the H1N1 pandemic will be, but at least it will result in a bad flu season. It is also clear at this point that the pandemic will be significantly worsened by fear-mongering against the most effective defense we have against the flu – the vaccine.
There is a body count attached to this unreasonable fear, justifying FDR’s famous words.
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How sad that there is fear mongering over such an important issue.
I am acquainted with both sides of this issue: those individuals who fear that they will become ill simply from receiving the flu shot, and an individual who became gravely ill when, a couple of years ago, they contracted Influenza A. I’m sure I don’t need to tell you what the effects and/or consequences of this virus can be.
The Ministry has done a decent job of putting out pamphlets and commercials advising on the various methods of avoiding contracting the flu, but does the public really understand what the flu is? Should not the Ministry also be including this in its education program?
It is my belief that if people understood what the virus actually is; they would recognize that the benefits of receiving the shot far outweigh any risks…
1I heard on the news recently that only one third of Canadians were planning on getting the H1N1 shot, but that we need about 70% compliance for it to actually be affective. As one who studied (and written on) the pandemic of 1918 I am asking do people really not understand what a threat this could possibly be? I’m sure health care professionals such as yourself are advising your patients, but I guess what I am asking is; how can we, as laymen, press upon our co-workers, friends, etc. of the importance of receiving the vaccine? And, feel free to correct me if I am wrong, but is it not of the utmost importance to receive both the N1 and the seasonal flu shot this year?…
2Well, first off I don’t think this flu virus is as bad as that in 1918. But getting sick with H1N1 is far more dangerous than getting the immunization. And yes, you want both immunizations this year.
In the office I’m far too busy to have extended discussions with people about the science, though. I recommend it, try and reassure them, but if they’re not interested, there’s not much I can do…
3True. There are several differences between the two viruses and I meant the reference only to show the possibilities. I suppose having witnessed first-hand the effects of influenza, I tend to get a little frustrated with the apathy people have shown toward the virus and/or the vaccine.
Perhaps through continued education and media attention people will come to realize the seriousness of the illness, and we’ll see much greater numbers of people receiving the vaccine than the reported 30%. One can hope…
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