Myth: Avoiding The Flu Shot Will Not Prevent The Flu

BOSTON, MA (WBZ-AM) --  In a world of political divide there is something that unites us all. 

The Flu --  It is nasty when you get it and a lot of people have fallen ill with the flu over the last few weeks. The Center for Disease Control says this is the worst flu season since the pandemic of 2009. 

Experts say it's number one enemy is: Prevention.

"Flu is an example of how we are all connected around the world," said Dr. Tom Frieden, former head of the CDC. "We decide what flu vaccine we're going  to use in this country by tracking what flu strains are spreading in other countries." he said

The CDC has hurged everyone to stop hemming and hawing and to get vaccinated against the flu.

But are people listening?

Dr. Melanie Doupé Gaiser is a myth buster when it comes to the flu.

The social scientist with Danvers based Eliza, Corp, she's says she's on a mission to educate and nudge people to make better health care choices and that our minds are tricksters and we need to challenge our thinking. For instance  with skipping the flu shot 

"That is a myth," she said.  "For example skipping the flu shot can increase your chance of getting the flu by 400-percent  so it's an example of a little nudge that can help educate people they can factor in their decision making and factor it in their desire to avoid getting sick," Doupé Gaiser said.

You can read Doupé Gaiser additional thoughts on the flu on her blog. 

WBZ NewsRadio1030's Laurie Kirby reports.


Sponsored Content

Sponsored Content