Swine flu vaccination

August 26, 2009

There are plenty of opinions and facts floating around... Massachusetts just passed the law that fines and jails everyone that is refusing to vaccinate.

Would you and your children take mandatory vaccination if made so by the law?

August 26, 2009

There are plenty of opinions and facts floating around... Massachusetts just passed the law that fines and jails everyone that is refusing to vaccinate.

Would you and your children take mandatory vaccination if made so by the law?

I would leave the state. The vaccine has never been tested for safety on humans, and the government has granted the manufacturer immunity from liability for any damages, no matter how severe or deadly they may be. Instead of the mercury preservative thimerosol, they have used oil based adjuvents that have been linked with severe long-term neurological and other health issues in the past.

Besides, I do not EVER get the flu, or colds. But if I were to get a flu shot, I might have a severe autoimmune flare-up that could do some serious damage.

August 27, 2009

Well fccool I live in Mass and have not heard that, I guess I'm out of the loop.

pk

August 27, 2009

I don't get the newspaper so I get all my news from TV and internet. But I often read the front page of the papers in my stores. I was taken aback by a bold headline in yesterdays paper stating over half the nation expected to get swine flu this fall. It made me angry because alot of people believe everything they read without investigation. How much of a panic is this fear mongering going to cause?; when along with that, the news also tells us that there wont be enough vaccine for everyone? This is bad bad bad. Maybe worse than the actual flu.

GLG, I also have never had the flu and its been years since I had a cold.(I believe God has had a hand in this because he knows I need to keep working ) I already have an autoimmune disorder and never take chances with preventitive drugging because of that. Just a general FYI, when someone has an autoimmune disorder, they are greatly susseptable to more.

August 27, 2009

I think Black Sabbath (and, weirdly, also the Jonas Brothers) have a song title that's applicable...

August 27, 2009

Would that be "paranoid"?

August 27, 2009

Points for the lovely lady

August 27, 2009

If any state does pass a law requiring everyone to be vaccinated, I don't see how they could possibly enforce it. It would be a nightmare for those responsible for actually carrying it out. How would they know I didn't get one? I don't have a doctor. My health care provider is a nurse practitioner who no longer lives in Michigan, but still has her Michigan license.

If they do pass a law, they'd better have provision for exemptions. If they forced me to get one and I ended up spending a month in the hospital, I'd sue the state to get them to pay the bill. I don't have that kind of money, or insurance.

Besides, there are all kinds of natural remedies that will knock out a cold or flu before it gets very far, if you start at the first sign of symptoms. And flu shots have a record of being the least effective of all vaccines, because flu viruses mutate so quickly.

August 27, 2009

Not to mention, flu shots have a very bad track record of causing serious side effects. At my husband's family reunion, I was chatting with a relative who is a nurse at a hospital, who confirmed that information.

August 27, 2009

I know quite a few people that got flu shots through the years that got the flu. And I remember a friend in the Army that got the flu and eventually got pneumonia. I personally I'm not interested in taking this shot.

pk

August 27, 2009

Is this vaccine part of the regular flu shot, or is it in addition to the regular flu shot?

August 27, 2009

The flu is difficult because it keeps on mutating. That's why a new vaccine is needed every year, rather than a life-long or multi-year vaccine such as is used for polio, rubella, tetanus and so on. So it's unsurprising that some people get the flu after getting the flu shot - they have been infected by a different mutated strain that the vaccine didn't protect against. By the nature of the vaccination process, it can only protect against the thing it's designed for.

Influenza A(H1N1) ('swine flu') is a different strain to the normal seasonal flu, and as such it will need its own vaccine - but they might decide to mix the two and administer them together, not sure.

I understand the caution about vaccines, I really do. But I also wonder what would have happened with the campaigns to stamp out smallpox and polio - diseases that killed millions and disabled millions more - if they'd happened these days when there are large pockets of the community that resist vaccination.

It looks as though swine flu is not the massively fatal flu pandemic... though it has certainly killed enough people that caution and care with it are essential. But at some point a pandemic *will* come along: there's been one in every century for which we have records. At that time, those resisting vaccinations need to think carefully, not only about themselves, but about the others who can be infected (who might be more vulnerable than them) because they have acted as a 'vector' to pass on the infection.

Before people jump all over me, I don't think compulsion is the right way to go, but I do think education is important. And I do worry about those who wish to trust *only* in natural medicines... natural medicines are great, but they didn't stop polio or smallpox in their tracks, and they won't stop a flu pandemic. They offer symptomatic relief and immune system support, but you can still pass on the flu virus to others.

August 27, 2009

Nor sure carolaa, I thought they were talking about the flu shot? But could be wrong.

pk

August 28, 2009

From what I've read, it is a stand alone vaccine. It is being tested on humans but the results wont be ready until at least the end of Sept. The vaccine will be available to children, pregnant women and the immune suppressed, first.

August 28, 2009

Quote:

The flu is difficult because it keeps on mutating. That's why a new vaccine is needed every year, rather than a life-long or multi-year vaccine such as is used for polio, rubella, tetanus and so on. So it's unsurprising that some people get the flu after getting the flu shot - they have been infected by a different mutated strain that the vaccine didn't protect against. By the nature of the vaccination process, it can only protect against the thing it's designed for.

Quite right Mr.B I remember one year the CDC picked a few wrong flus and more people got sick than normal. It's a mix of statistics from the previous year and good old fashion guessing, as to what the flu vaccine mix will be.

I heard tonight that the swine flu is not mutating much as it lands in different areas of the world. And it appears to be a touch trasmitted virus vs the air bourne transmitted seasonal flus. So, cover your mouth when you cough and sneeze. Wash hands often. And do what I do, use a tissue when you have to touch your eyes and nose. Oh and I am not a doctor. I just play one on CA. hehe

August 28, 2009

This swine flu although very potent seems to only kill those with severe medical issues that complicate the immune system anyway. Any major infection would have killed those people. Those without any immune problems shrug off the flu in a week. So unless you are old over very young in which case you would not be reading this I would not be concerned. Besides Tamiflu is very effective in negating the worse symptoms of this flu. I would keep some in the house for this flu season.

But only take Tamiflu when you come down with the flu. It does not prevent the flu.

August 28, 2009

Nope - a number of formerly perfectly healthy people in their 30s have died from it. Not as a matter of routine, and they may have had some undiagnosed underlying conditions, but it's not only the very old, very young and very sick to whom it's a threat.

August 29, 2009

Cyber Guy a Tamiflu-resistant swine flu appeared in Mexico earlier this month, I think it was. I wouldn't count on Tamiflu.

August 30, 2009

Nope - a number of formerly perfectly healthy people in their 30s have died from it. Not as a matter of routine, and they may have had some undiagnosed underlying conditions, but it's not only the very old, very young and very sick to whom it's a threat.

The fact remains that the vast majority are recovering after a few days of sickness. Keep plenty of aspirin and some Tamiflu available. Keep the fever down and the worst discomfort can be avoided. Get plenty of water and non sugary fruit juices available and wait it out. Keep away from all excess sugar during the holidays. Sugar lowers the immune system and makes it easier to come down with the flu.

Once you come down with the flu DO NOT GO TO WORK. No use in contaminating your co workers with the virus. Be considerate. Stay home and recover. At least that way you can do your share in isolating the virus. Have well family members get stuff from the store. If they do not live at home have them ring the doorbell and leave it at the doorstep for you. No use in sharing this bug with family members. Do not go to the hospital unless you are in distress. They can only help to make you comfortable. There is no cure for the flu. Only the bodies immue system can throw off the bug.

August 30, 2009

I found these tips on the net for keeping the flu at bay.

Avoid sugar—Even small amounts of sugar, like one can of soda, can significantly impair your immune function for hours.

Drink Green Tea—The popular tea contains an immune boosting chemical called EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate) that helps you fight germs and recover faster when you are sick. Add honey. It has antibacterial properties and helps the immune system.

Sleep—Your immune system functions much better when you get enough sleep. Get eight hours.

Eat Mushrooms—Mushrooms are an immune system booster, especially the shiitake, reishi and maitake varieties.

Wash Your Hands—Washing with plain soap and hot water will get rid of most bacteria and viruses.

Eat Red Bell Peppers—Vitamin C can decrease the duration of a cold by 80%. Red bell peppers have twice the amount of Vitamin C as an orange.

Eat Yogurt—Yogurts that contain active cultures are a good source of probiotic bacteria. They fight off bad germs, as well as help increase your body’s white blood cell count.

Add Garlic—Garlic has anti-bacterial and cold-fighting properties that help the immune system to fight infection. Garlic contains allicin, one of the plant kingdom’s most potent antibiotics.

Drink Water—Without enough moisture, membranes in the nose and throat are unable to effectively capture the virus. Drink eight glasses. Drink less alcohol. Alcohol is an immune suppressant that can decrease your resistance to viral infections.

Be Happy—Psychologists in the field of psychoneuroimmunology have shown that state of mind affects health. Long-term, chronic stress suppresses immunity.

Eat Sauerkraut—Korean scientist Kang Sa-Ouk took 13 chickens infected with avian flu virus and a couple of other diseases, fed them pickled foods, and 11 of the birds recovered. Experts think flu-fighting bacteria are created during the fermenting process.

Optimize your vitamin D levels. Vitamin D deficiency is the likely cause of seasonal flu viruses. Getting an optimal level of vitamin D will help you fight infections of all kinds. In fact, the largest study yet of the association between vitamin D and respiratory infections found people with the lowest blood vitamin D levels reported having significantly more recent colds or cases of the flu.

Eat plenty of probiotic-rich fermented foods, or take a high-quality probiotic supplement to support your digestive and immune system health.

Exercise. When you exercise, you increase your circulation and your blood flow throughout your body. The components of your immune system are also better circulated, which means your immune system has a better chance of finding an illness before it spreads.

Eat Oysters—Oysters contain more zinc per serving than any other food, according to the US National Institute of Health. Scientists at the University of Florida have shown that zinc increases activation of the T cells responsible for destroying viruses and bacteria.(since oysters squik me out, I just take extra zinc in a tablet. And zinc works when I feel like a cold might be building)

Also found this about sugar

Here is a list of ways sugar can affect your health:

Sugar can suppress the immune system.

Sugar can upset the body's mineral balance.

Sugar can contribute to hyperactivity, anxiety, depression, concentration difficulties, and crankiness in children.

Sugar can produce a significant rise in triglycerides.

Sugar can cause drowsiness and decreased activity in children.

Sugar can reduce helpful high density cholesterol (HDLs).

Sugar can promote an elevation of harmful cholesterol (LDLs).

Sugar can cause hypoglycemia.

Sugar contributes to a weakened defense against bacterial infection.

Sugar can cause kidney damage.

Sugar can increase the risk of coronary heart disease.

Sugar may lead to chromium deficiency.

Sugar can cause copper deficiency.

Sugar interferes with absorption of calcium and magnesium.

Sugar can increase fasting levels of blood glucose.

Sugar can promote tooth decay.

Sugar can produce an acidic stomach.

Sugar can raise adrenaline levels in children.

Sugar can lead to periodontal disease.

Sugar can speed the aging process, causing wrinkles and grey hair.

Sugar can increase total cholesterol.

Sugar can contribute to weight gain and obesity.

High intake of sugar increases the risk of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.

Sugar can contribute to diabetes.

Sugar can contribute to osteoporosis.

Sugar can cause a decrease in insulin sensitivity.

Sugar leads to decreased glucose tolerance.

Sugar can cause cardiovascular disease.

Sugar can increase systolic blood pressure.

Sugar causes food allergies.

Sugar can cause free radical formation in the bloodstream.

Sugar can cause toxemia during pregnancy.

Sugar can contribute to eczema in children.

Sugar can overstress the pancreas, causing damage.

Sugar can cause atherosclerosis.

Sugar can compromise the lining of the capillaries.

Sugar can cause liver cells to divide, increasing the size of the liver.

Sugar can increase the amount of fat in the liver.

Sugar can increase kidney size and produce pathological changes in the kidney.

Sugar can cause depression.

Sugar can increase the body's fluid retention.

Sugar can cause hormonal imbalance.

Sugar can cause hypertension.

Sugar can cause headaches, including migraines.

Sugar can cause an increase in delta, alpha and theta brain waves, which can alter the mind's ability to think clearly.

Sugar can increase blood platelet adhesiveness which increases risk of blood clots and strokes.

Sugar can increase insulin responses in those consuming high-sugar diets compared to low sugar diets.

Sugar increases bacterial fermentation in the colon.

August 30, 2009

The last time I came down with the flu was in December 2005. I ate two pieces of cheesecake with strawberries on top. Oh it was SOOOO GOOOD. That was friday. By Saturday I came down with a fever. By Sunday I had a fever of 104.5 and coughing was bad. I think now I had Pneumonia as I had all the symptons of that. I took a double dose of advil and knocked the fever down to 100.5 and took that every day until the fever and coughing was gone by the following Thursday. I have never been so sick with the flu before. But it was the cheesecake that did me in.

August 30, 2009

I survived swine flu. :D

August 30, 2009

Cyberguy... I doubt that chesecake will cause you to come down with flu.

A couple notes on sugar LOL,

Eventually, any type of sugar you eat will be converted to glucose to be transported by bloodstream to your body to use as a key energy component.

Sugar is not an enemy, it actually is a key to abundant Biblical life: "A land flowing with milk and honey". Something that Ironically we recommend people to exclude from their diets today.

The problem with people in US today is very simple and steightforward. It is really a math problem more than anything else:

If you consume more calories than you use... you are eventually going to gain weight. So, the answer is not in excluding sugars, or fat, from your diet (granted that the refined sugars and animal fat have better alternatives to sugar and fat), but to eat less of these .

There are plethora of pretty straightforward studies that show that obesity is not related to proportional consumption of sugars or fats, but to the size of the servings consumed as a total calorie intakes.

So, to sum up, vegetarians will naturally consume more sugar than meat eaters... yet it does not make them automatically more prone to diabetes. The key is overall serving size, and activity level.

All of the "SUGAR IS BAD FOR YOU" or "FAT IS BAD FOR YOU" booga booga give people wrong ideas about proper nutrition.

He's a good study on this subject:

http://www.veganoutreach.org/health/populardiets.html

September 1, 2009

I read in the news this morning that they are now testing the vaccine on humans. According to the article, so far it appears to be safe for adults, though they have no results on its effectiveness yet. They have just started testing on children.

But I have to wonder - what do they mean when they say it's safe? It does no harm to anyone? Or it does, but they consider the numbers to be low enough to not be cause for concern? And what about the test subjects? They are all volunteers, and I feel quite sure than nobody who has ever had an adverse reaction to a flu shot in the past has volunteered to test this one. So can the safety results really be trusted to accurately reflect what can be expected across the entire population? Probably not.

Still, I'm feeling a bit better about this vaccine. Not that I'm going to get one. No, for me it would be more risk than virus itself. I'm mainly concerned about my adult children, and my grandchildren. I do not want to lose any of them this winter.