Every year, the warnings seem to become dire when it comes to the flu. Many employers strongly urge employees to get the flu shot and schools also send home terrifying statistics to encourage everyone to get vaccinated. Flu clinics crop up everywhere, from your local town hall to the pharmacy you visit. In fact, they even start cropping up earlier and earlier with each passing year.

While influenza can impact your health and cause you to suffer a whole host of unpleasant symptoms, you may want to tune out the fear mongering and take a look at the facts about the flu and other ways it may be treated. The flu shot is touted as the only defense. However, there are alternatives that are worth a look and may be slightly more effective than the flu shot. The flu, like most every communicable disease is spread through contact with an infected person. If someone with the flu sneezes on you, shakes your hand, shares your drink, or “shares” the virus through some other means of direct contact, you may get the flu. If you actively watch how you interact, such as not shaking hands and not drinking after others, you can safeguard yourself without a shot. Also, the most important precaution you can take to safeguard yourself from getting the flu is to wash your hands. While it may sound simple, it works to guard your health as much if not more than any vaccine.

Another alternative to the flu shot is to visit the chiropractor Rochester residents can trust. When you get chiropractic services, you are increasing your immune system. A lot of illness, including the flu, is the result of a suppressed immune system. Chiropractic care can open up blocked nervous systems and allow the body to strengthen its own defenses. The chiropractor Rochester residents trust can also direct you to the best herbal remedies on the market. Certain herbs can work to boost your immune system and also help you deal with the symptoms of the flu or another illness. Herbal tea with honey helps coughs and sore throats. Echinacea has been shown to boost the immune system and lessen the time you are ill. Elderberry is known to help purify the blood and tissues, expelling the pathogens that make you sick. Ginger is also widely known for its health benefits, such as being a natural anti-inflammatory and aid for stomach issues.

While you may see the signs for the flu shot everywhere and hear on the news how doomed you will be if you don’t get the shot, take some time to find out what natural remedies and how chiropractor Rochester services may help you stay well.