As my name suggests I'm not the bravest.

Just got out of hospital having suffered a bout of influenza A and gastritis (and bronchitis). It was rather a hellish experience, although the hospital was very good and made it more tolerable.

Now I'm left clutching an impossibly large stash of medicine, and pondering the advice of having twice yearly flu jabs.

Anyone got any feedback on the matter if so extend mercy to wretched wimp and post your thoughts.

The recommendation for two shots is to cover both Northern and Southern hemisphere versions? I only get one myself as believe most years they are almost the same. Or is it to keep it stronger in you (believe in the US they do provide stronger versions for those of use who are older but do not believe they are available here).

Sorry to hear you've been unwell MMB - at around 800 baht a go the flue shot seems to be a reasonable insurance policy, especially if you're getting older. I started to get them a couple of years ago and there's no side effects, importantly I haven't caught the flu, but since I didn't catch the flu before I started to get the shots there's no way of knowing if it's worthwhile. Belt and braces I reckon, a bit like taking multi-vitamins.

FWIW I reckon the best aid for these things is a generally healthy diet and lifestyle, I know that sounds kinda boring and doesn't reconcile well with some of the reasons some of us came here for in the first place but it does work.

Stay well.

A very very stupid troll removed.

You should certainly have annual infliuenza vaccine but I don't understand the recommendation for twice yearly.

With your history, you should also get the pneumococcal vaccine (that's a one time immunization).

Thanks for some great postings by all, luckily didn't see the one from Mr Troll.

Yes a no brainer CM, thanks for putting it across so well.

Come to think of it, I think the doctor mentioned it was updated twice a year, and I took that to mean I needed to have the jab twice a year.