In the United States, the University of California, whose nine colleges and over 285,000 students make it the largest state system in the country, announced mandatory influenza vaccination by 1 November for “all members of the UC community… to support the health and well-being of UC students, faculty and staff and our communities.”
They say the flu vaccine is necessary to “ameliorate the severe burdens on health care systems anticipated during the coming fall and winter from influenza and COVID-19 illnesses.”
And Don’t Forget the Kids
In Massachusetts last Wednesday, the government declared all students ranging from six months old in day care centers to those under 30 must get flu shots in order to attend school.
Students, including those in districts with remote learning, have until the end of the year.
Exemptions will be allowed for medical, religious, or homeschool reasons. College students who are studying 100 percent online will also be exempt.
TRENDPOST: While seasonal flu shots have been touted by health officials for over a decade, how effective are they?
A CDC report showed the 2019-2020 seasonal flu vaccine was successful less than 50 percent of the time.
According to the CDC report summary, published on 21 February this year, “The overall estimated effectiveness of seasonal influenza vaccine for preventing medically attended laboratory confirmed influence virus infection was 45 percent.”
According to the website livescience.com, “Rare but serious side effects can occur, including allergic reactions. Symptoms of serious side effects include difficulty breathing, swelling around the eyes or lips, hives, racing heart, dizziness and high fever.”
