Experts reveal why flu vaccines aren’t working

Healthy solutions to avoid flu season Dr. Barry Ritz. PhD Research Associate at Drexel University and expert in Nutritional Immunology Take Charge Of Your Health…Don’t Let The Flu Catch You! Flu Trends: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that, on average, 36,000 Americans a year die from complications of influenza. In the past few weeks this has suddenly become one of the hardest hitting flu season on record. 44 states reported widespread flu activity, up from 31 last week. In hospitals across the country, people are in intensive care units, some on respirators close to death, because of complications of influenza. Many, if not most, have had their flu shots this year. According to the CDC, the flu shot is a good match for only about 40 percent of this year’s flu viruses. Bribane/10. It often causes severe disease, and to make matters much worse, this year’s flu vaccine doesn’t protect against this strain. The flu season is getting worse, and U.S. health officials say it’s partly because the flu vaccine doesn’t protect against most of the spreading flu bugs. Studies show college campuses are especially hard-hit this year, as students living and eating in close proximity and lack of sleep are vulnerable to latest flu strain. Story Description: The statistics are staggering. While millions have lined up for their flu shots this year, the influenza vaccine given to Americans has not protect as well as expected. According to U.S. health officials, the number of flu cases increased dramatically nationwide. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said slightly more than half of the influenza virus strains reported to its surveillance system are not good matches against the strains included in this flu season’s vaccine. So what can you do to avoid the flu this season? Dr. Barry Ritz, Research Associate and Nutritional Immunology Specialist from Drexel University reveals how improving your immune system can be the first line defense against flu symptoms. It’s not too late! Don’t let the flu catch you! Sponsor: American BioSciences