Dr. Parsons Flu Shot Remedies

Should You Get the Flu Shot? Here’s What You Should Know About Viruses and Immunity

Should I Get the Flu Shot?

I’ve been getting a lot of questions lately: “Should I get the flu shot… or shouldn’t I?”

The truth is — that’s a personal decision. I can’t make it for you. What I can tell you is that the flu virus is here to stay. Modern medicine hasn’t found a cure for viruses, but there are important things you should understand about how they work — and how to protect yourself naturally.

How Viruses Spread

Viruses are crafty little critters. They travel through the air via coughing or sneezing, launching tiny droplets that can easily be inhaled or swallowed. (Yes, it’s gross — but it’s real life!)

That’s why covering your mouth and nose is so important. Always cough or sneeze into your shirt sleeve or arm, not your hands. And if you use a tissue, throw it away immediately. Leaving it on a surface releases more germs into the environment.

👉 Pro tip: Use it and lose it!

Handwashing: Your First Line of Defense

Hand washing works — when it’s done correctly. Unfortunately, most people don’t wash long enough to actually remove viruses and bacteria.

In medical settings, hands are scrubbed with an iodine solution for as long as it takes to sing “Happy Birthday” twice — that’s how long it takes to really kill germs.

🧼 Wash your hands like you mean it:

• Use warm water and soap
• Scrub for at least 20–30 seconds
• Don’t forget wrists, fingernails, and thumbs

(FYI: Iodine is not only great for sterilization — it’s also crucial for thyroid and breast health. There’s even a simple test to check your iodine levels. Ask about it at your next visit!)

And yes — creating a “handwashing dance” might make it even more fun. 💃👏

Avoid Exposure — and Still Show You Care

If someone you love is sick, the kindest thing you can do is keep your distance. Drop off some homemade bone broth chicken soup, ring the doorbell, and wave from afar. ❤️

Here’s why it helps: The immune-boosting power of chicken soup comes from the bone marrow of the chicken — not the boxed broth, even if it’s organic. The real magic happens when you simmer those bones for hours, releasing minerals, collagen, and nutrients that support your immune system.

So skip the carton and make the real deal. Here’s a simple version to try: Simmer a whole organic chicken (bones and all) with onions, garlic, carrots, celery, and herbs for several hours. Strain and enjoy warm!

Final Thoughts on the Flu and Immunity

Whether you decide to get the flu shot or not, remember: prevention starts with healthy habits.

• Wash your hands effectively
• Get plenty of rest
• Eat nourishing foods
• Support your immune system with vitamins and minerals
• Keep stress low and laughter high (it’s a proven immune booster!)

You can’t avoid every germ — but you can make your body a place where viruses struggle to thrive.