The Simcoe Muskoka Medical Officer of Health trying to set the record straight surrounding vaccines.
In his regular Health column, Dr. Charles Gardner says he wants to dispell some of the so called myths about vaccines.
He says its especially important the facts get out to the public because This winter there has been a dramatic rise in influenza across much of Ontario, including Simcoe Muskoka.
However he says the number of people who were vaccinated against influenza is down well below the norms of past years.
Dr Gardner says it cannot be said for certain that the low vaccine uptake is related to the surge in illness.
He says one of the myths out there is if you live a healthy lifestyle you wont need vaccines.
Dr. Gardner says the fact is Staying healthy will increase the bodys ability to fight infection. However, many illnesses can still make you sick even if you are healthy.
He says another popular myth is too many vaccines may harm the bodies immune system.
The fact is, according to Dr. Gardner vaccines strengthen the immune system by safely introducing an antigen to the body. The immune system learns to recognize this disease, preparing the body to fight it off quickly.
He says another myth is that vaccinations cause Alzheimer disease and autism.
Dr. Gardner says The one study linking autism to a type of vaccine has been proven to be fraudulent and the British doctor who authored it discredited. Research continues to ensure there are no serious risks from vaccines.
He says if you have not had your flu shot, it is not too late to talk to your health care provider.
