More than 80,000 people died from the flu last season in the United States, according to early estimates from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Generally, the very old, the very young or those with major medical problems like diabetes, heart disease or immune conditions would make up the overwhelming portion of those severely ill with flu.
But last season was different.
Children especially can be helped by the flu vaccine. Last season, 172 children died from flu-related illnesses in the United States — a record for a flu season, according to the CDC.
About 80 percent of those who died had not received a shot.
Get the flu vaccine. Immunity from flu is expected to last through January for those who get vaccinated now.
By training, I am a American Board Certified Pediatrician. But in my younger years I grew up with natural alternatives. As a mom I have tried to incorporate both for my kids and it has worked wonders. And finally, as I am studying natural & alternative medicines, I realize the beauty and wisdom of living closer to earth. Hence in my practice I integrate both...for acute ailments I follow American Academy of Pediatrics recommendation but for simple and/or chronic conditions I prefer natural alternatives.
In western training we were raised to think that "health is the absence of symptoms and problems". But eastern sensibilities has educated me that "Health is state that allows one to use the full capabilities of their body, mind and intellect. Therefore, healthy living is a balanced state of well being: physically, mentally, socially and spiritually." This implies that healing is not a "one-pill-fits-all", but a personalized experience.
