This first WebMD article discussed the effectiveness in the 2007-2008 flu season. It said the vaccine was only 44% effective for that flu season and that two of the three components of the vaccination did not match the strains of the influenza virus that plagued most Americans. However, the 44% effectiveness is still better than the 0% effectiveness of no vaccination at all.
The second article I found was extremely helpful. It answered some important, commonly asked questions about the flu vaccination and how it effective it is. The article stated that is important to get a flu shot every year because it reduces the risk one has of getting the flu during the annual flu season, which is usually from November to April. The vaccine takes two weeks to become effective, which may have explained why I had gotten the flu five years ago, I may have been vaccinated to late into the flu season. Also, when asked if one can still get influenza after being vaccinated, the article states, "If the viruses in the vaccine and the influenza viruses circulating in the community are closely matched, vaccine effectiveness is higher. If they are not closely matched, vaccine effectiveness can be reduced. However, it is important to remember that even when the viruses are not closely matched, the vaccine can still protect many people and prevent flu-related complications."
So, moral of the story? Get a flu vaccine. Because, although not always effective, being vaccinated lowers the risk and is better than being completely prone to influenza, like I always have been.
And if this doesn't convince you enough, take a look at this PSA (public service announcent) From the American Lung Association. (found http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JRvnL5_og8g)
