Reader Reaction: Locals Differ in Opinion About the Flu Shot

The flu season seemed to have hit hard and early this year, prompting some who never got a flu shot before to run out and get themselves inoculated.

Local pharmacists said that the flu shot was available at their stores before the weekend, others have temporarily run out because of higher demand.

Residents chimed in about whether or not the flu shot was worth it or if it was even effective. Some who commented on a question we posted on our Facebook page seemed to think that they’re better off taking their chances. Others reported getting the shot for the first time this year because of reports.

“Actually just got mine today at Rite Aid in West Islip - they had plenty,” reported Kerry Landhauser on Facebook.

She said that people should expect to wait 20 to 30 minutes for the shot and they need to come prepared to fill out an information sheet and have an insurance card ready.

“I am a little worried,” said Diane DeNicola Napolitan. “I got my flu shot in September, and also my children got it too. I am diabetic, asthmatic. I know the shot isn't 100 percent, but I hope it’s enough.

Napolitan said her husband finally got the shot this year for the first time.

“My husband… finally got it after me urging him and seeing the reports on the news,” she said. “He went to Rite Aide today as well.”

Marianne Pizzo Bowden said she went without the shot this year for herself and the kids after a bad experience.

“I have never gotten the shot and the one year I got it for my kids who are relatively always healthy were sick all that winter,” said Bowden. “Never again.”

Lisa Holmes Nasta agreed.

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“The last two years I got the shot and I got very sick shortly thereafter,” she said. “When the flu panic reports come out I remind myself that I will never do it again!”

Kassandra Nicole Harvell said she also got the flu with the shot.

Landhauser reported that she hadn’t gotten the shot in a while but the news prompted her to get one.

“I haven't had a flu shot in years but after seeing how terrible and widespread it is, I did it,” she said. “Hopefully I wasn't too late as it takes two weeks for its full immunity builds up.”

Did you get the flu shot? Did the news of a bad flu season prompt you to get it for the first time? Or do you forgo the shot and take your chances? Talk about it in the comments below.