I have always considered myself to be a healthy person. No major illnesses. No major surgeries. No broken bones (except my finger which was a long, long time ago). Blessed. But….when I do get sick, I am down for the count. Pneumonia or severe bronchitis. I know it when I have it. It’s a given. Triggers? Travel (airplane and hotel room air). Too many days in a conference room. Alergies I can’t get under control.
Pretty simple but even my preventative inhaler doesn’t save me from the dreaded about twice a year. I tell my family that when it’s my time, I’m pretty confident it will have something to do with my lungs.
It was suggested I get the pneumonia shot which I did about 5 years ago. I still get it but they say it helps not be as severe. Ok. It has been suggested I get the flu shot. I did. With no real reaction until last year when I actually did get the one strain that wasn’t covered. Go figure.
Anyway. I am over 50. I have lung issues. I have decided to get the flu shot again. I think it’s one of those deals that its better to be safe than sorry. I guess you can say I have a 50/50 chance but the wrath of not getting it and becoming sick is much more costly, LOL.
As I was reading my AARP magazine today (do not judge), there was an article about the number of folks getting flu shots is down. More so in those between 50 and 64 but still a large number older than 65. This is pretty concerning. CDC director confirms that for the most part the flu doesn’t get enough respect. Some people think of the flu and vomiting and diahreah. No. It can be a cold, bronchitis and then untreated turn into deadly pneumonia.
There are two new vaccine options available this season. One that protects against four strains and another aimed at those 65-plus that includes an ‘adjuvant’ It’s an ingredient to increase the shot’s effectiveness by boosting the body’s immune response. (maybe that’s why they asked for proof of age…..sign up accordingly =)
Please read THIS to understand more about the differences (6 most & up, smaller needles, 65+). Walgreen’s, Rite-Aid, CVS and many more places actually offer the flu shot on-the-spot. No excuses – get your’s today!
IT IS NOT too late! The flue is serious and unpredictable. With the vaccine you not only reduce the risk of contracting the virus but also reduce the ailment’s severity and complications. Most of the outbreaks are between December and March.
Now on to the good stuff. I still work every day, plus take care of the ‘female’s chores’, and spend time sewing, blogging, reading and enjoying family but I do look at my life sometimes and wonder. I thought I knew all about the good life…and maybe I do. I read through this list and luckily was able to check each one. How about you?
- Do you have a close family or dear friend around you?
- Do you work at staying involved and connected to others?
- Do you feel you are contributing to a better world?
- Are you learning new things or having new experiences?
- Do things make you smile or laugh frequently?
- Do people in your community share values similar to yours?
- Do you spend time doing what gives you pleasure?
Did your results surprise you? Or were they ‘spot on’? I hope I can always answer yes to these PLUS some. Yep! A good life it shall be. Remember the quote I love….
I am responsible for the life I am living (says Mary Crimmins)
Cheers to the ‘good life’ you choose –
