Flu shot

[bwhite285]

I am 24 years old, and I was wondering if I should get a flu shot this year. I never get sick, but being new to the field, I wasn't sure? Let me know what you think

[iteachob, MSN, RN]

My opinion is that you should get them (seasonal and H1N1). Even if you never get sick, there's always a 1st time. You also want to protect your patients from getting the flu from you, should you get it. You are in a high risk group (health care worker), and by virtue of your age, high risk for H1N1.

I've had mine (both kinds).

[chevyv, BSN, RN]

I found when I was new to the field that I was sick so much more that first year or two. I had never worked in a hospital before so I think I just had to build up some immunity to all the different things lurking there. I got my flu shot already. I do it not so much for me, but so that I can better protect my patients.

[classicdame, MSN, EdD]

you will be exposed to a lot of sick people and to their friends and family. I recommend the vaccine

[mandykal, ADN, RN]

this year(july), we took a road trip from ct.-->florida. visited many parks, then visited family members in n.c. my wife ended up in the er. my dtr who is 3 was firing a temp that was difficult to break (apap alter with motrin), my son who is 7 and i was sick aswell, so our return trip home back to ct was delayed. we are in good health, i went to the gym on a daily basis prior, and that strain whatever it was, fit all the discription of h1n1. i've never felt so sick with respiratory + other s/sx. if i had the option of getting a vac, i wouldn't hesitate. those who states "i never get sick," i always say, consider yourself lucky, but when you're expose are you prepared?

[DuluthMike]

Overwhelming evidence shows that as a health care provider you should get the seasonal immunization to protect your patients from you.

Anecdotal evidence shows that you should get the h1n1 vaccination to protect yourself from your patients.

Personal choice, but I would at minimum get your seasonal vaccination.

[Turtle in scrubs]

If not for yourself, for your community. Lets hear it for Herd Immunity :w00t:

[CrunchyMama, ASN, RN]

As I do with any vaccine before deciding for my kids is look into the disease (or in this case, sickness) to see what the threat is, then look into the vaccine itself (including ingredients), then decide from there. Don't ask on a site full of nurses and nursing students, of course 99% will say get the shot, lol. Good luck with your decision!

[texcollex]

I've had a lot of trouble with the flu shot making me sick. I would have severe body aches and fever for at least two days. Last year I tried something at someone's advice. I pre-medicated myself with two Ibuprofen the night before, then another dose that morning. I continued my dosing Q6H for nearly two days after my flu shot. I had only very mild side effects from the shot that year. I repeated the process this year with the same results.

Tex

[traumaRUs, MSN, APRN]

We can't provide the answer for you. It needs to be a decision between you and your care provider based on a number of factors. Good luck and stay well.,