These stories are based on information gathered from
health professionals and consumers. They may be helpful as you make important
health decisions.
Bert, age 68: I am in very good health for my
age. Still, I get a flu shot every fall. Why take chances? I've seen too many
friends end up in the hospital because they didn't take the flu seriously. I
urge my kids to get it too, because you never know how nasty this year's flu
strain might be.
Starla, age 42: I am terribly allergic to
eggs, so I can't take the flu shot. Instead, I take antiviral medicine to help
protect me from the flu. I have a family to support, including my dad who has
kidney disease. So the last thing I need is to get the flu and bring it into
the house.
Betsy, age 17: My grandmother is in a nursing
home, and I visit her every couple of weeks. I wouldn't want to risk giving her
the flu, so I'm going to get a flu shot.
Quincy, age 25: At my age, I don't see any
reason to get a flu shot. I'm very strong, and I hardly ever get sick. I'm not
worried about getting the flu.