Tips for Beauty:Update on H1N1 (Swine flu)- Should You Vaccinate?

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In the last few weeks, my inbox has been flooded with your questions on H1N1 and whether getting the H1N1 vaccine is a good idea. While the choice to vaccinate is clearly a personal one, here is some information to help arm you in making the right choice for you and your family.

The threat of a H1N1 outbreak is real. Experts predict that the H1N1 (swine flu) could infect 30-50% of the population. Still, it is important to remember that most cases in the U.S. so far have not been serious. Normal seasonal flu kills as many as 36,000 people a year, compared to 556 U.S. deaths currently linked to H1N1.

Yet, the CDC is recommending vaccination for all high risk groups like: health care workers; pregnant women; children and young adults 6 months to 24 years old; parents of babies under 6 months old; and adults with underlying medical conditions like diabetes, asthma, and lung disease. The first doses of the nasal spray vaccine will be available in early October 2009. While we still have much to learn about the swine flu vaccine, there are some concerns with its usage.

Known reactions to the H1N1 vaccine
Flu-like symptoms
Guillain Barre syndrome (a nerve disorder causing muscle weakness and paralysis)
Dangerous for those allergic to eggs
The H1N1 vaccine may contain toxic adjuvants like squalene, linked to inflammatory disorders.

A strong immune system is your really your best defense against any flu. You can use your diet and whole herbs to supercharge your defenses without great risks or side effects. Even if you do choose to vaccinate, a healthy lifestyle is still critical for seasonal flu defense.