Why I Refuse Flu Shot

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Some nurses believe that it is nurses' moral obligation to get a flu shot to show community an example to do what is right. And that is exactly the reason why I always refuse a flu shot - to be an example.

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Well I hope that works out for you job wise and all. I for one get the flu shot to protect myself and young children not to show my community the way.

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Specializes in Critical Care.
Some nurses believe that it is nurses' moral obligation to get a flu shot to show community an example to do what is right. And that is exactly the reason why I always refuse a flu shot - to be an example.

An example of what?

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I actually don't know a single nurse who gets the influenza vaccine to be an example to the community.

They do it to protect themselves and their patients.

What's the rationale for not getting the vaccine and how does it help the public and more specifically your immunocompromised patients?

[influence of knowledge and attitude on the uptake ... [Harefuah. 2010] - PubMed - NCBI

Influenza vaccination of healthcare workers: a lit... [infection. 2006] - PubMed - NCBI

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Specializes in ER/ICU/STICU.
Some nurses believe that it is nurses' moral obligation to get a flu shot to show community an example to do what is right. And that is exactly the reason why I always refuse a flu shot - to be an example.

Do you believe vaccines cause autism? Do any of your posts involve not complaining about something?

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Specializes in Med/Surg, LTACH, LTC, Home Health.
Some nurses believe that it is nurses' moral obligation to get a flu shot to show community an example to do what is right. And that is exactly the reason why I always refuse a flu shot - to be an example.

I've based my decision on what I've seen with my own eyes. Once again, I will say: each year AFTER getting vaccinated, my dad and brother (both military) get the flu. And each year WITHOUT being vaccinated, neither I nor my grown kids (civilians making our OWN decisions) remain flu-free.

I'm not saying do as I do and I'm definitely not saying do as 'they' do. I'm just sayin........

So, deductive reason says I'm with Steve123 on this one since this has been my experience since I started paying attention to this vaccine in my family since 1988...been nursing since 1986. So as I'm holding flu-effectiveness literature in one hand and holding a box of Kleenex for my dad in the other hand, that's all the proof I needs. What's funny is that in between coughs and sneezes, he still tries to persuade me to take the darn shot.:roflmao:

But I love you guys, still!!

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Specializes in LTC.

My view (I'm a student not a nurse): Years ago I refused the flu shot. Vaccine objections, that was my reasoning. I am a T1 diabetic. In 2004 I got the flu, then I got pneumonia, then I went into DKA. I get the shot now. It can kill you, the flu. I have never had the flu since I started regularly vaccinating. That's proof enough for me!

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Specializes in Med Surg.

Anecdotal evidence for or against the flu shot is just that - anecdotal. As in, not scientific. We get flu shots (and other immunizations) because scientific data backs up the conclusion that it raises overall herd immunity and decreases the prevalence of disease.

And ultimately, we are trying to protect the populations with whom we work, as well as ourselves and our own families.

(Plus, more and more people won't hire us without one)

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I also do not know any nurses personally who get flu jab to be en example. But from time to time you can read on nursing forums something like that. Here is a quote from other forum, "As healthcare workers, we waive our right to self determination. We must remember our profession isn't the same as a banker, or a policeman. As responsible health-workers, we are regarded as promoters of health and well being. How could you promote health if you yourself doubt it? Roll up your sleeves and get a prick!" I think that the author of this is well brainwashed.

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Specializes in Hospice, Palliative Care.

Good day:

9% effective rate... can it be just a money game?

2012-13 Healthcare worker flu vaccine review: A concern for us all

Thank you.

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Good day:

9% effective rate... can it be just a money game?

2012-13 Healthcare worker flu vaccine review: A concern for us all

Thank you.

For what age group is this years influenza vaccine 9% effective?

How effective is it for the age group that the vast majority of healthcare providers belong in ? (hint: a whole lot better than 9%).

The fact that this years batch isn't as effective for people over 65 as one would wish is a strong reason for us who do work in healthcare to get the influenza vaccine so that we lower the risk of infecting our vulnerable patients.

Your source Natural News:

NaturalNews - RationalWiki

If you do embark on a nursing career you will be expected to practice evidence-based medicine. I believe that you need to be more critical about your sources.

pmabraham, please help me out here. I found this on You Tube. Is this man the founder of Natural News? Do you consider him credible?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N0qCoWiIPUQ

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Specializes in Hospice, Palliative Care.

Good day:

As a fiscally conservative believer in a small government who sees is being done by the administration, I do find him to be more credible than President Obama.

When was the last time the flu vaccine worked in 100% of the population? Hmmm, if never at 100% then it's a gamble.

Follow the money; that usually gives you motivation.

Thank you.

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