So. California Institute of Clinical Nutrition

By Dr. Laura Thompson

Welcome to another in our series of Shot or Not – continuing research, news developments and answers to your questions about vaccines and flu shots. This year’s edition focuses on flu vaccines.

More and more, it seems politically-correct/incorrect for celebrities to do their bit to advise the public on pertinent health issues. Boniva, Boniva, Boniva. Then there’s Claritin Clear; Lipitor for sure and anti-depressants have been discussed a couple times on the Leno show. Remember, the people who chose to recommend the use of these drugs, represent drug companies, Big Pharma, when they do this. For some reason, we, the public seem to feel more comfortable taking a pharmaceutical if a celebrity has endorsed it.

Today, I caught part of an episode of Regis (Philbin) and Kelly (Ripa). They were getting their flu shots on air. Regis was obviously more nervous than usual. Then he stated that in the past he had pain in his arm for 8 weeks following the administration of a flu shot. He was noticeably scared. The nurse assured him that it is totally safe – this time.

Kelly received the FluMist, an intranasal influenza preparation, because it is “safe” for people under the age of 50. The FluMist seems appealing – no shot, no pain. Great for kids, right? Think of this though. There is a thin protective bone at the top of the nasal passages. The olfactory (smell) nerves pass through this bone and line the nasal passages. They carry molecules to the brain that identify certain smells we are familiar with. This is a long-time recognized direct pathway to the brain. The down side is that intranasal injection of certain viruses can possibly result in brain infections. The virus can presumably be carried to the brain.

Children, ages 5 and up, teens and adults under 50 are targets of the FluMist. It is very easy to administer. And again – no pain. However, side effects reported have been headaches, muscle aches, irritability and fever over 100 degrees. These are the very symptoms the vaccine is supposed to prevent.

So some people receive a flu shot and some receive a nasal spray. They each can have serious repercussions because they contain, in addition to active viruses, toxic ingredients. They are like a chemical soup. Some contain mercury (Thimerosal) or polysorbate 80, toxic preservatives. Some contain monosodium glutamate and formaldehyde, in addition to a long list of other toxins.

Several patients of mine over the last 3 years have reported incidence of shingles or herpes outbreaks following their influenza vaccine. At first, I found this to be more than coincidental, but made no accusations. Then, after at least 3 reports, I realized what the problem was. The viral load in the body was just too much for the immune system to handle. And so, it broke down. In other words, the person was already immune-compromised with dormant chicken pox or herpes viruses lurking, just waiting to express themselves. The vaccine was the stimulus for the breakdown of the immune system.

The point I’m making here is that we are told to avoid getting a flu vaccine if you have a current infection. How would you know? You may have an infection with no symptoms. Or you may have a viral overload that you do not feel.

A person is also supposed to avoid taking a flu vaccine if they on steroids (because they suppress the immune system). Asthmatics, Crohn’s and arthritis patients often take steroids. For example, many inhalers are steroid-based.

In fact, a large percent of our population would by this definition, be considered immuno-suppressed. People in this category also have to avoid being around those who’ve received the FluMist vaccine. The virus in the vaccine can shed and be transferred through nasal fluid and saliva. Since nasal congestion and runny nose is the most prevalent side effect, this can be very contagious and dangerous – especially if you’re very young, elderly or your immune system is weak. Think of restaurants, churches and other public facilities. Someone who has received the FluMist vaccine could sneeze near you or your food and if you’re susceptible you could get very sick. The possibilities are endless. And no one is telling you about this.

My purpose for writing this article is not to make you crazy or confused. It is to educate and inspire. People who educate themselves about controversial issues make informed decisions. Actually, everyone I know, who has truly researched this topic has decided not to get the flu vaccine.

Fear can be paralyzing. Taking action to strengthen your body and its internal army is something you can do whether you get vaccinated or not. All you need is tools. Thankfully, there are many.

These products should always be used, even if you do catch the flu or have another infection. You will recover more quickly and vitally.

For a customized program, please call 800-608-5602. We can now, with a simple saliva sample, customize your homeopathic product to work especially for you.

Dr. Laura Thompson, Family Nutritionist and Naturopathic Endocrinologist has a nationwide practice by phone, and locally in Carlsbad, California. Call for in-home testing info, 800-608-5602.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The products suggested, are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Please check with your health care practitioner for your best health options.