Health
Thinking of taking a flu shot? Read this first…
From the World Council For Health
It’s not just that they’re ineffective, they also cause harm. Learn about safe alternatives such as Vitamin D, quercetin and zinc.
If you’re of a certain age or demographic and in the northern hemisphere, chances are you’re being invited or encouraged to get a flu vaccine. The claim is that flu vaccines protect you and others from coming down with flu – and that if you do get it, the symptoms will be mild. So, is this true?
Many scientists see the flu shot as an unnecessary measure. For one thing, there’s a big question over whether the flu vaccine even works, particularly for older people, for whom it is recommended. Studies show that the vaccines often do not match the circulating viruses and no significant effects on serious complications or hospitalizations have been demonstrated.
You’d think that vaccinating people against flu would lead to a reduction in deaths from flu. But figures show that this isn’t the case. In fact, even though the number of flu shots given has increased more than eightfold, the number of flu-associated deaths has remained more or less unchanged.
There’s a logical explanation, and it goes like this:
Antibodies are not enough
Flu vaccines, like any other vaccine, primarily rely on the so-called Th2 antibody response. This generates antibodies to help the body fight off the influenza virus once it enters the bloodstream. What vaccines don’t do is impact the first line of defence in the nasal mucosa. This part of the innate immune system does not use antibodies, and it is here where respiratory viruses replicate.
This is why vaccines for respiratory viruses will never prevent infection or the transmission of the disease.
The immune response to vaccinations also decreases with age, which further reduces the already weak effect of vaccination in older people. Studies bear this out. In particular, a 2012 article in the British Medical Journal quoted an independent study that looked at data from 1967 to 2012 and concluded there isn’t strong evidence showing that the flu vaccine consistently protects people. While it does offer some protection for young, healthy adults who usually don’t face serious flu complications, the researchers noted that there is not enough evidence to support its effectiveness for older adults (65 and older), who account for more than 90% of flu-related deaths.
Recent research into the efficacy of flu shots also reveals their limitations
- In 2020, Anderson et al. showed that influenza vaccination of 60 to 70 year olds in England and Wales had no discernible positive impact on hospitalization or deaths:
- Another study in Japan reported on 83,146 individuals aged 65 years and followed them up over six years. In 2023, the incidence of hospitalization for influenza did not differ significantly by vaccination and the claimed protective effectiveness against incidence waned quickly after four or five months.
- Another 2020 study from Anderson and team analysed data covering 170 million episodes of care and 7.6 million deaths. Turning 65 was associated with a statistically and clinically significant increase in rate of seasonal influenza vaccination. However, no evidence indicated that vaccination reduced hospitalizations or mortality among elderly persons. The study points out that estimates were precise enough to rule out results from many previous studies.
This is not just a concern for the elderly but for all those with weakened immune systems, including those undergoing immunosuppressive treatments, or individuals with chronic health conditions. In such cases, the Th2 response may not produce enough protective antibodies to effectively combat the virus, leading to a higher risk of severe illness.
Here’s another reason to exercise caution of the flu vaccine:
Flu vaccines actually SPREAD the virus
Controlled studies published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) find that people who receive flu shots emit 630% more flu virus particles into the air compared to non-vaccinated people. In other words, flu vaccines spread the flu!
Physicians for Informed Consent has produced this concise summary of facts that you, your loved ones and your doctor should consider before a potential injection.
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All this leads to an important next question:
If the flu shot isn’t a good idea, what is?
The flu shots’ limitations make the prevention and treatment of flu with nutritional supplements like Vitamin D, Quercetin, and Zinc more appealing and safe. These supplements not only enhance the immune response but also offer additional antiviral and anti-inflammatory benefits:
Vitamin D protects the lungs and airways – and much more besides
Studies have shown that Vitamin D supplementation can significantly reduce the risk of influenza infections by enhancing the body’s immune response. It works by modulating the expression of inflammatory cytokines and increasing macrophage function, which are essential for fighting off infections.
Moreover, Vitamin D has been found to protect the lungs and airways through the antimicrobial peptide cathelicidin, which has both antibacterial and antiviral properties. Vitamin D supplementation shows promise in reducing the risk and severity of respiratory infections, including influenza. The evidence suggests that consistent Vitamin D intake can lower the incidence of acute respiratory infections, shorten the duration of symptoms, and enhance immune response, particularly in the elderly. These benefits can translate into reduced hospitalizations and deaths due to flu, making Vitamin D a valuable component in flu prevention and management strategies.
Quercetin: a powerful antiviral and zinc’s vital wingman
Quercetin is a flavonoid found in many fruits and vegetables, known for its antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. It has been shown to inhibit the entry and replication of viruses in lung cells, making it a potent candidate for managing respiratory infections like the flu. Quercetin also acts as a zinc ionophore, facilitating the transport of zinc into cells, which enhances its antiviral effects. Studies suggest that the co-administration of Quercetin and Vitamin C can exert a synergistic antiviral action, further boosting immune response and reducing viral replication
Zinc: helps prevent and reduce infection severity and duration
Zinc is an essential mineral that supports various cellular functions of both the innate and adaptive immune systems. It interferes with the process that certain cold viruses use to multiply, thereby reducing the severity and duration of infections. Zinc is particularly important for the recruitment and activity of neutrophil granulocytes, natural killer cells, and T cells, all of which play critical roles in the immune response. Supplementation with zinc has been supported by evidence showing its effectiveness in preventing viral infections and reducing their severity.
In summary…
The questionable efficiency and safety of the flu vaccine raises important concerns that cannot be overlooked. Alternative approaches such as supplementing vitamin D, quercetin and zinc, are one way to enhance immunity without the risks associated with traditional vaccinations.
Moreover, the potential for the production of IgG4 antibodies as a response to the vaccine illustrates a complex interaction between immunization and immune system dynamics, where the very act of repeated vaccination may inadvertently lead to a weakened response against certain influenza strains. This effect can also result in the weakening of the immune system in general to fight infections and cancer. This highlights the need for continued research and dialogue about the benefits and risks of flu vaccination versus alternative preventive strategies.
As we navigate through flu seasons, it is crucial to remain informed and consider individualized approaches to immune health. Ultimately, a well-rounded strategy that includes lifestyle choices, nutritional support, and an understanding of the science behind flu immunization could empower individuals to make informed decisions that best suit their health needs. The World Council for Health stands for a better way.
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References:
1. Berndt, Christina: ‘Experten mit den falschen Freunden’, http://www.sueddeutsche.de/
2. http://influenza.rki.de/
3. http://www.gpk.de/
4. Committee concerning Influenza Pandemic (H1N1), 2009, http://www.who.int/ihr/emerg_
5. Di Pietrantonj, C.; Rivetti, A.; Bawazeer, G.A.; Al-Ansary, L.A.; Ferroni, E.: ‘Vaccines for preventing influenza in healthy adults’, in: Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2010, 7., Art. No.: CD001269, DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD001269.
6. Wittig, Frank. Die weiße Mafia: Wie Ärzte und die Pharmaindustrie unsere Gesundheit aufs Spiel setzen, 2012Yan J, Grantham M, Pantelic J, Bueno de Mesquita PJ, Albert B, Liu F, Ehrman S, Milton DK; EMIT Consortium. Infectious virus in exhaled breath of symptomatic seasonal influenza cases from a college community. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2018 Jan 30;115(5):1081-1086. doi: 10.1073/pnas.1716561115. Epub 2018 Jan 18. PMID: 29348203; PMCID: PMC5798362.
The World Council for Health (WCH) is a grassroots, people-powered, non-profit initiative based in Bath, United Kingdom that seeks to broaden public health knowledge and sense-making through science and shared wisdom.
WCH was founded by Dr Jennifer Hibberd, a pediatric dental surgeon, and Dr Tess Lawrie, a medical doctor and former consultant to the World Health Organization, in September 2021 in response to growing distrust in local, national, and global public health authorities leaving people in fear and confused regarding how to best care for themselves, their families, and their communities.
The World Council for Health has more than 200 Coalition Partners in over 50 countries around the world and is currently in the process of decentralization, having activated more than 25 WCH Country Councils.
Alberta’s government is launching a public engagement to gather input about legislation and policies around assisted suicide, also referred to as medical assistance in dying (MAID).
Medical assistance in dying is a process that allows an eligible person to receive assistance from a medical practitioner in ending their life. To be found eligible, a person must be suffering from a serious and permanent medical condition.
Alberta’s government is reviewing how MAID is regulated to ensure there is a consistent process as well as oversight that protects vulnerable Albertans, specifically those living with disabilities or suffering from mental health challenges. An online survey is now open for Albertans to share their views and experiences with MAID until Dec. 20.
“We recognize that medical assistance in dying is a very complex and often personal issue and is an important, sensitive and emotional matter for patients and their families. It is important to ensure this process has the necessary supports to protect the most vulnerable. I encourage Albertans who have experience with and opinions on MAID to take this survey.”
In addition to the online survey, Alberta’s government will also be engaging directly with academics, medical associations, public bodies, religious organizations, regulatory bodies, advocacy groups and others that have an interest in and/or working relationship to the MAID process, health care, disabilities and mental health care.
Feedback gathered through this process will help inform the Alberta government’s planning and policy decision making, including potential legislative changes regarding MAID in Alberta.
“Our government has been clear that we do not support the provision of medically assisted suicide for vulnerable Albertans facing mental illness as their primary purpose for seeking their own death. Instead, our goal is to build a continuum of care where vulnerable Albertans can live in long-term health and fulfilment. We look forward to the feedback of Albertans as we proceed with this important issue.”
“As MAID is a federally legislated and regulated program that touches the lives of many Albertans, our priority is to ensure we have robust safeguards to protect vulnerable individuals. Albertans’ insights will be essential in developing thoughtful policies on this complex issue.”
The federal Criminal Code sets out the MAID eligibility criteria, procedural safeguards and reporting obligations. The federal government has paused MAID eligibility for individuals with a mental illness as their sole underlying medical condition until March 2027 to ensure the provincial health care systems have processes and supports in place. Alberta’s government does not support expanding MAID eligibility to include those facing depression or mental illness and continues to call on the federal government to end this policy altogether.
Related information
Alberta
Health Care Update: Province will deliver health services regionally in seven “health corridors”
Ensuring a successfully refocused health system |
Alberta’s government continues to make progress refocusing the health care system to ensure all Albertans get the care they need.
Under Alberta’s refocused health care system, four fully integrated provincial health agencies are being created to oversee the priority sectors of primary care, acute care, continuing care, and mental health and addiction. Two of the provincial health agencies, Recovery Alberta and Primary Care Alberta, have been established with input from more than 30,000 health care professionals and Albertans.
Additionally, it was recently announced that Minister of Seniors, Community and Social Services Jason Nixon would become the sector minister for the new continuing care provincial health agency. He has now taken on this role and will oversee continuing care as the government works toward standing up the new continuing care agency.
“Refocusing the health care system is a complex process that needs to be done right. We’re committed to taking the time necessary to develop a better health care system for Albertans and the front-line workers who work tirelessly every day to serve their patients.”
Acute Care Alberta transition
Acute care, which includes hospitals, emergency services and surgery care, is a significant part of the health care system, providing critical care to Albertans when they need it most. Alberta’s new acute care provincial health agency, Acute Care Alberta, will become a legal entity in early 2025 and begin operating in spring 2025. As work continues, Alberta’s government is committed to ensuring there are no interruptions to patient care while keeping front-line workers and all Albertans informed and supported.
The new acute care provincial health agency will work directly with service providers to speed up access to high-quality care, reduce wait times and ensure a patient’s journey through the acute care system is efficient and effective.
To support the standing up of Acute Care Alberta, the Acute Care Provincial Health Agency Executive Transition Team has been established. The team includes executive members from Alberta Health and an external special adviser, Dr. Chris Eagle. As a former CEO of Alberta Health Services, Dr. Eagle brings extensive experience in the delivery of acute care services in the province. He will provide valuable insight and expertise that will support the transition of Alberta Health Services from a health authority to a service delivery provider.
Throughout this work, Albertans will continue to access acute care services as they always have, and there will be no impact to front-line health care workers and their continued dedication to delivering health care to Albertans.
Primary Care Alberta now operational
As of Nov. 18, Primary Care Alberta is a legal entity under the leadership of Kim Simmonds, whose first task is to support the transition of operations by setting the agency’s vision and mission, implementing policies and processes, and developing plans. Simmonds and her leadership team will work closely with existing primary care teams at Alberta Health Services to establish the new agency.
“Every Albertan deserves to have a long-term, trusted connection with a family doctor or health care team. We are ready to work to ensure all Albertans have a primary health care home.”
Primary Care Alberta will coordinate and deliver primary health care services across the province, so all Albertans and their families are supported in their day-to-day health needs while avoiding visiting the emergency department and reducing pressures on acute care services.
Integrated approach to health system planning
As part of the refocusing work, Alberta’s government is also taking a new, regional approach to health system planning through seven integrated health corridors.
As a regional grouping within a health care system, a health corridor is designed to reflect how Albertans use health care services in the province based on factors such as travel patterns, access points and local population needs. The corridors consider data related to where Albertans access services and facilities, as well as feedback received during health care refocusing public engagement sessions.
As a result, these corridors will enable an evidence-based approach to planning that will inform decisions about services, workforce and infrastructure across the four new provincial health agencies. This new approach will connect care pathways and support seamless patient journeys throughout the health care system.
“New health care corridors present many opportunities within Alberta’s health care system. Further regionalization of services, in addition to a focus on rural needs and representation, will be essential to ensuring our communities get access to the care they need.”
Health corridors will ensure Alberta’s government will be better able to determine current gaps in the health care system and inform investments in those areas, including operational dollars and funding for capital projects. Getting a better regional understanding of how the health care system is being used will ensure decision-making processes reflect the changing needs of Albertans.
Upcoming engagement opportunities
Alberta’s government remains committed to maintaining open lines of communication with Albertans as it stands up the new provincial health agencies that will form the backbone of Alberta’s refocused health care system.
The input, experiences and feedback Alberta’s government is gathering are helping to create a more effective and efficient health care system that meets the needs of Albertans today and for generations to come.
All Albertans are invited to participate in upcoming telephone town halls with Health Minister Adriana LaGrange to discuss the ongoing work to refocus the health system. Town halls will take place on:
- Nov. 19, from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m.
- Nov. 27, from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
- Nov. 28, from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m.
Albertans can register to participate online.
In addition to telephone town halls, Albertans can provide feedback on the refocused health care system online until Dec. 5.
A second round of in-person public engagement is planned for winter/spring 2025 to share information and receive feedback about refocusing work. Those interested in keeping up to date on the health system refocusing work and new engagement opportunities can sign up for an e-newsletter.
Quick facts
- Legislative amendments have been implemented to support the transition to the new health care system.
- To support health service delivery, Alberta Health Services divided the province into five zones: Calgary, Edmonton, south, north and central. The new integrated health system plan will include seven regional health corridors:
- North-West
- North-East
- Edmonton
- Central
- Calgary
- South-West
- South-East
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