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Flu Shot Disappointments
U.S. researchers attempting to quantify the number of lives that
have been saved by influenza vaccines have come up with a disappointing
number; something close to zero. Early predictions were that flu
vaccines would save the lives of about half of those vaccinated.
However, “Based on U.S. mortality rates from 1968 to 2001, the study
by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases found
no correlation between increasing vaccination rates after 1980 and
declining death rates in any age group.” Some researchers are now
suggesting the earlier studies were flawed, and also that the elderly
may not be getting much of a benefit because many fail to produce
antibodies in response to the vaccination. Natural immunity development
may be responsible for the earlier perceived benefits of inoculations.
Details are in the Archives of Internal Medicine 2005; 165: 265-272.
This
past season when we had a so called “shortage” of the vaccine, we
experienced one of our mildest seasons!
Yours
in health,
Lynne
Sullivan D.C.
Ps:
I will be doing a book signing this Sat. from 2-4 at The Bookstore
2911 Hopyard Rd in Pleasanton. Come on by a say high
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