Wednesday, October 29, 2008

I finally did it...

First time in almost a decade. I got a flu shot. For many years I got the shots regularly and I started getting sick after the shot. Sicker each time. Everyone says it is impossible. The flu shot does not make you sick... blah blah blah. I know what I know. Being a mobile type, I was never around the same doctor for more than one shot, one illness... I have no proof, but I came to believe.

The last straw was back in '99. I got the flu shot, got painfully, horribly sick, and was nearly hospitalized with pneumonia... I swore off flu shots. I get tons of other wierd immunizations, they are ok - but not the flu shot. I haven't had one since that bad attack. I've caught colds since. I think as much as anyone. I've also gotten very ill with bronchitis. But not during flu season. Usually on vacation, after exposure to new cooties and airline travel. And if I'm going to get sick anyway, why get poked? Except, perhaps, if I want to try and time the illness to be more convenient - but I never tested that theory... I was really too miserable that last time.

Why do it? Sigh... because I am a mom. I actually believe in vaccines, even if I have my doubts about the whole 'babies as pin cushions' idea. I think infant innoculations should be spread out a bit...all that toxic crap flooding their tiny little bodies all at once! No way! Work with your doctors, moms. Space 'em out! Anyway, I believe in the science. Even flu shots. So, even if I have been convinced that they really are out to get me, and I do, I believe it is personal, and not the general tendency of flu vaccines.

Today I set a good example and took the kids with me for the flu shots. Brian was very brave. After a follow-up check of his condition - after that cold/flu/bad asthma attack of last week - we went with the nurse for the innoculations. He hopped right up on the table. Asked me to sit next to him, but watched the nurse (a new friend for him after all the attention last week) prep and poke his arm. The needle pinched a bit, and he started to say "Mom! I don't like..." but then the nurse said, "All done". He was amazed at how fast it was. Honor wanted me to go next, so Brian held my hand so I would be ok... I was :-) (so far...), then it was Honor's turn. She tried to be brave, but she was scared. This is new - she's handled needles better in the past. Probably a age/phase thing, but you could see her think... the giggles disappeared and the smile turned upside down.. the tears started. Poor little big girl! Fortunately, the nurse had time and patience, and we talked her through the process. She managed to sit it out with my arms around her, no yelling, and quick recovery. It was a fast shot. A sticker and lolly-pop helped.

My arm is barely sore. I don't feel fevery. Perhaps after nearly 10 years, the flu shot gremlins will have moved on. Forgotten about me. Taken their sport elsewhere.

We'll see....

... wonder if the local hospital has wireless??

Hope I make it through the next couple days of Halloween party and carnival fun at any rate!

5 comments:

Tina in CT said...

I never used to get them until one year my boss (a new boss) told me that if I didn't get the shot (free at work) and got the flu, she'd kill me. She was very pro flu shots. So, I got one. No problem and never got the flu. That was about 7 years ago and I now get one each year at work. Unfortunately our flu clinic at work is not until mid Nov. which I think if pretty late but it's convenient and free so I'll wait until then.

I HATE all shots and blood tests so tell the tech/nurse and they never have the needle in sight and I turn my head. So, I am fine.

Mama Seoul said...

I think I am going to skip it this year or at least wait a little longer. Ian had flu mist and we both got mildly sick. Flu Mist does have a small risk of transmission (unlike the shot). Curt is going to get it as soon as he gets over whatever he has.

Simple Answer said...

Got mine. Too many weird/new diseases going around here for me to risk getting something I coulda had a shot for. After 4 years there, your immunity should be pretty hearty.

MsTypo said...

I have had every shot known to man but am unwilling to get a flu shot. I've flat out never had one. I know too many peopel who seem to get the flu from the shot!

I don't mind getting the flu and fighting it off the old fashioned way.

Diane Mandy said...

Good for you! I think you'll be better off with the shot. And I hope you don't have a bad reaction again. You are one busy lady!