I’ve had my flu jab, have you? – Sharon Spendelow

I am now not a risk to service users, friends and family.

I have always believed that the human body’s immune system is a fantastically efficient and effective set of processes. I think antibiotics are over-used and that most times our bodies will overwhelm infections and so we need help only in specific and on infrequent occasions if we are healthy.

For me, this means my body is equipped for minor to moderate infections but what about major risks – infections that can be catastrophic and when the likelihood of encountering them is fairly high? Would I survive? Can’t be sure? How can I increase my chances? Therefore, in these circumstances when I want my body to be better equipped than usual for this major threat, I want a flu vaccination. I perceive no significant risk, I’ve read the data.

As a fabulous secondary effect
– the old and the vulnerable in particular – I can visit my elderly mum without worrying that I might be bringing an infection that could kill her.

Sharon Spendelow
Lead Resuscitation Officer