H1N1 - Questions Worth Considering

Anyone who would take the time to read your articles... and know the time and effort you put into them to make sure they are accurate... would never call you a DA. I appreciate all the information you share with us... and all the time you take to do so. Thank you! Renee

You are so right on about this. I have never seen anything get the press this virus is getting. The more hype it gets, the more suspicious I become, because we are not receiving transparent information from the CDC about the points you raised.

Keep up the good word!

I TOTALLY agree !!

I'm on your side Dr. Kim. To me the dumb asses are the ones who panic because of all the media hype about swine flu. If they are reading your website, you would think they are interested in alternative forms of taking care of themselves and would realize that the media, which is funded by the vaccine makers and drug makers, are just stirring up business for the above mentioned.

Anyone who has followed your advice, knows that it works and wouldn't want a flu shot no matter what the media said. Keep up the good work and don't be afraid to voice your opinion. Let the dumb asses rant and rave all they want what do we care.

Dr Kim - Thank you for your insights...they are very much appreciated.

Well said, Dr Kim. I understand not wanting to feed the hysteria, but your article gives those of us who choose not to get flu shots much needed support and validation. Thank you for voicing your opinion.

I am an RN and I totally agree with you. The media gets people into fear and the pharmaceutical companies are out to make money. When I hear these warnings on TV shows I turn them off.
I say thanks for being a voice of the truth.

Isn't it ironic that we are supposed to be the most free countries (USA and Canada) in the world, and yet people increasingly condemn and judge people whose opinions differ from their own? What happened to intelligent debate and engaging multiple perspectives? Of course, they have justification (scientific evidence) to prove their righteousness. I stand for personal responsibility - people making reasoned decisions in alignment with their own integrity - and I honor you Dr. Kim for being willing to subject yourself to attack by EXPRESSING (not killing people for it or brainwashing them) your (controversial) position, clearly and intelligently. Unfortunately, this is what happens when you speak your truth. It's dangerous to show up and stand for something! I am cheering you on!!!! Wake up people! Be willing to examine your certain truths and inspect the indoctrination in your beliefs!

I agree a million percent!

Great article!

Thank you for writing it Dr. Ben Kim!

I am appalled to read that angry e-mailers (some being nurses in particular) have called you a dumb a_ _ ! I am so sorry you have been subjected to name calling by uninformed "sheep".

I have never had a flu shot and never plan to (willingly), and neither has my husband. I don't think the majority of "the sheep" out there understand exactly what is IN a flu vaccine!

Our United States federal government does things from time to time that I find highly suspect, and their scare tactics over H1N1 ranks right at the top of that list.

I suggest people READ everything they can find on this subject before being led "blindly" to the slaughter by the federal government.

Robin in Texas
(Sometimes I really wish Texas would secede!)

Dr. Kim, your advice on everything is among the very best on the internet. Please continue just as you are.
Thanks you so much for being there

First off, Dr Kim you are a very intelligent man. You have research and facts behind every article that is published, and the H1N1 is no exception. People are always looking to the government to tell them what to do, and how to do it, never giving a thought that their lifestyle has everthing to do with their health. They can continue on a diet of junk, fast food, colas, ect and expect their body to tolerate it. The H1N1 vaccine has never been properly tested, and if anyone will research the ingredients, they wouldn't go near it.

Thanks for all that you do in improving our health.

Dr. Kim: I am happy to join the company of a dumb ass such as yourself instead of being a sleepy sheep. Thank you for a great article while abstaining from adding to the panic that we have been too much the subject of as of late. Best of Health!

I am 100% with you Dr. Ben. No reason to take the Flu shot if you are a healthy person. I don't really consider myself 100% healthy as I have a compromised immune system from Lupus but I have always believed in letting my body fight the flu and cold bugs off on its own. 5 days of misery may be my fate but with plenty of fluids, pushing the Vitamin C and lots of rest I have always recovered and felt better for it. The pharmaceutical companies keep everyone so scared of the flu and other bugs that our society has COMPLETELY forgotten that not such a long time ago there were NO antibiotics or flu medications readily available. We need to get back to our roots and let nature run its course.

Dr. Kim, your information is so refreshingly clear, sensible and nonjudgemental. Please don't let a few ignorant people deter you from posting your wonderful and important information and personal viewpoint. I read your articles with sincere interest, and I'm sure these critics are few compared to the grateful.

I personally want to say thank you for not just going with the herd mentality that is blindly running off the cliff.

I recommend that everyone do their own research and find out what is the truth behind the mainstream media and the misinformation being painted for the public at large.

Fear based decisions in my opinion do not usually have good outcomes. Taking a look at a situation from many sides and figuring out what is beneath the surface of the situation is the best approach.

Thank you Dr. Kim for your dedication to improving people's awareness and their personal wellbeing. Anyone that is attacking you and using such terms is obviously not... fully informed and doing their own research. They are reacting from the fear based decision of not doing more research.

I recommend that yes everyone go to the resource link above and also go to naturalnews.com, mercola.com, google Len Horowitz and any other person that is willing to go beyond just excepting information at face value.

Dr Kim, I hope that you will freely provide any information that you feel is important for people to know. I support and commend your efforts and your ability to move beyond the blindedness of those that do not want to look beyond what they already believe.

Thank you.

You are not a dumb a.. There have been many great minds in history who were called nastier names by their contemporaries back then.

Thank you for posting this article! It's ashame that people have such a terrible means of communication. We should all be responsible for our health concerns, my motto: "when in doubt, research your subject." I have read so much information on vaccinations, both pros and cons, and have ultimately decided that maintaining a strong immune system through natural means is the best choice for me...but again, to each his own. And I know that the mercury levels may seem fairly low in certain vaccinations, but as I read recently, "while mercury is a highly toxic element second only to radioactive plutonium, when combined with other ingredients, specifically aluminum and formaldehyde [with which it is commonly combined in vaccinations], the synergistic effects increase 10,000-fold"...a very scary thought....

Dr. Kim, thank you for all that you do and your consistently positive outlook even through such condemning emails....I, too, am hopeful that we all can live with as much compassion and empathy as we hope others have with each of us...

Warm Regards

Well said Dr. Just to let you know, if you want to know how the Cancer Society get THEIR figures on how many people die from cancer and how many people they say they "save", I like to direct you to a DVD that I watched that will explain just that, very misleading numbers that they offer to us.... watch this movie which exposes the pharmaceutical companies, the government and the doctors that get kick backs from each other for using people as guinea pigs and unfortunately, as people as misguided, they flock like idiots to the clinics to get a flu shot....if you google it it is called www.theravediet.com if you can't find it, let me know I will look for it for you. I told a Dr from California about it, he bought it, he watched it, it is amazing 2 hrs of pure info, can't take my eyes off it, gotta stop this ridiculous money wasting, people using, lab rat asses that are benefiting from their victims! People should be glad that you are trying to protect them! Who is the dumb ass now?

I don't think it was necessary for you to justify your stance about the vaccines. Your readers (or most of them) do generally not take your word as a command, but as a sensitive and intelligent point of view on an issue. We do know how to form our own opinions, but still respect yours when it differs. You've been doing the same for us with your blog.

I think the bottom line is that all our bodies are different and react differently. If you start out with a toxic or already weak body that gets sick all the time, maybe the vaccine will prevent death and will thus be a good thing. If you're generally healthy and you rarely get sick, the vaccine may do more harm than good, because it does attempt to change a perfectly healthy immune system.

But fear makes us all do illogical things: that's what "traditionally" trained health care providers have been taught to do - with a few exception - and they will do it. They generally work on the basis of numbers and statistics of the masses, not on the basis of assessing an individual's health makeup. As you know, these cases can be incredibly twisted and not actually show the person by person health care realities. It's a ballpark figure. I assume your readers like the individual approach you've been showing us.

On to the next topic please... Like how to treat bursitis with natural means, or a first degree spondilolithesis. :)

Dear Dr. Kim,

I am sorry to hear that you are being negatively attacked. Please take solace in the fact that you and your family are making the best choices for yourselves and also that you have a strong following of people who are choosing the same for their families. Thank for speaking the truth and sharing with your readers. We are responsible for ourselves and as one reader already shared - personal responsibility is up to us. I don't beleive the hype of the media and newspapers and quite frankly I find it sad that so many studied people such as nurses and doctors fall for this garbarge instead of the truth. Thanks again and I will continue to look forward to future blogs especially on your upcoming research on Vitamin D!

Good on you for speaking out. In Sweden they are saying it's everyones duty to take the vaccine so as not to spread the flu to others and not many people people were questioning what's in it until now. Now when there are a few deaths and people start coming out with symptoms after taking the vaccine they finally start to ask questions.
I have looked into what's in the vaccine very carefully as my son is in the risk group. Ironically they recommend that the risk group be vaccinated first and perhaps that's why we are seeing so many side effects. I just don't get how it ever got to this point when people are near forcing others to inject themselves with a chemical cocktail!
I am saying no to the vaccine and concentrating on keeping my family healthy.
Thanks for speaking out Dr Kim.

The most rational and important column on this matter I have so far read.
Thank you Dr Ben - I hope you get an interview on mainstream media to get this message across.
Alice
NZ

Thank you Dr. Kim for all that you do!

For some reason our culture in America has become one that no longer asks questions. We have become complacent and over trusting of the Media, Government, and their programs.

If nothing else, people need to get back to asking questions and doing their own research! It would be nice to see a shift from people using their brain power to process what the latest Pop Star is doing into something more productive and critical to their quality of life.

Fight on Dr. Kim!

Many blessing to you and your family,
Carmela

Working for news media most of my career, I see that news organizations are competing with each other with newsworthy stories. H1N1-related stories are extremely newsworthy because of public concern. So EVERY news media broadcast/publish it to get higher ratings, not because of journalistic values. True journalism is, like what Dr. Kim said, really dig deep down to the absolute facts, publish and broadcast the findings to benefit the public. Journalism in television, in my opinion, has been gradually deteriorating since Uncle Walt's last broadcast. Now it's near entertainment. I recommend listening to N.P.R. for factual stories.

I have been attacked for my decision not to give shots to my daughter, and understand the frustration. I always appreciate your calm viewpoints that so echo my own.

I always tell myself this, when I find myself on the defensive for my choices: whatever we believe or don't believe makes no real difference to the truth. All I can do is go with my best educated choice. If vaccines are the better way, and I am wrong, then I am wrong. And vice-versa. What can we do? We can only make our most informed decision. It makes no improvement on the matter to name call, or declare ourselves more informed than others.

I also remind myself that on both sides of the vaccine/ flu shot debate is a deep caring of people. People give their children flu shots because they want what is best for them. People avoid giving their children flu shots because they want what is best for them. In that way, we are all on the same page.

You make so much sense! Keep up the good work. I look forward to your words every week.

I support everything you have said concerning the H1N1 and all other vaccines, or should I say potions. It reminds me of the fix everything and anything potions sold by the quacks that road around in wagons in the old west ( before they got respect and money, lots of money) and now reside in sleek offices in huge wagons that blanket the earth. Still though, selling the same quackery as they did then, poison. I have never had a flu shot that I can remember and have always felt there was something wrong with putting sickness in my body to cure sickness, never made since. Now I find I was right all along, since a lot more information that was never available, as it is since the internet age, is coming to light.

Thanks Doc. I wish we had more Dr. willing to stand up for truth instead of money, and helping people get well instead of keeping us sick. David

Couldn't agree more! Unfortunately, the FDA and other government agencies have brainwashed people into thinking that what they say goes. And instead of people realizing that all the people involved with these vaccinations are benefiting financially, they follow blindly harming themselves and their families in the meantime. Natural options that truly heal the body can't pad anyone's pocket and therefore, will never be an "FDA approved" treatment. That doesn't mean it doesn't work, in fact, it's usually the opposite. Nothing can replace a good diet and healthy living but if you do happen to end up sick herbs and MMS are good flu recovery aids!

I don't think you're a dumb (anything). I would not take a vaccine either. I use homeopathic nosodes for the H1N1.

Thank you, Dr. Kim, for sharing your thoughts on this subject. I trust the information you put out, and I, too, do not think that it is a good idea to get the flu vaccine. I have never received one, and I haven't had any form of flu in over a decade. I think we all would do good to keep out as many toxins as we can with what we choose to put in our body.

Dear Dr.Kim:

I completely resonate with everything you're saying. Yesterday, while folding laundry, I could hear the words coming through the television set about the young teenage boy who died. . .and the sense of panic generated through events such as this one. I found myself swearing at the t.v., the commentator, the news anchor. I know it sounds crazy, but it was the only way I knew how to protect myself. Five years ago, I would have accepted the information blindly, without question, letting the fear wash over me. I know what that feels like, tastes like. It doesn't motivate and only instills fear and more fear. Well, I refuse to let that happen to me, again.

'Dumb ass?' Well, how low is that? It never feels good when the mirror is being held up. People don't like hearing opinions that go against their own way of thinking. But I tell you, most people follow blindly, questioning nothing, because their sense of knowing or information comes from a place of authority. The thought is, 'They must have my best interest at heart. . .' Not always so. Our obligation is to ourselves, first and foremost and if that means I don't get the flu shot or whatever other shot the authority figures feel I 'should' get, then so be it. If it means, one does get the flu shot, so be it as well. Enough with the name calling. It's so unnecessary. People will do what they think and feel is best for them. Honestly, I just want to tell those folks who get so angry and upset, who want to reduce this all to being 'right'--Get off my wave.

And you're right. What is the true cause of death? Can we really say we know for sure? You said something I thought was really powerful and struck a chord with me instantly--Getting caught up in the panic and hype is a good way to get sick. After all, what we place our focus on is exactly what we create, for better or worse. Why not make the focus Health and all that entails? What's wrong with that? Nothing. Call me an idiot, naive, say what you will, I demand to live in the light, with my head held up high, to learn and grow without fear and to be aware of my own power. No one has faith in the fact that the body is designed to heal itself. We attack it at every turn never once considering that every ailment, pain, condition, disease, is the body's signal for help--a symptom waiting to be acknowledged, not suppressed, but truly acknowledged through the investigation of Cause. When we truly understand and know what this means, we won't be affected by all the hype. We'll continue eating our fruits and vegetables, exercising, meditating, loving our friends and families, doing things we enjoy and that keep us fulfilled, creating beauty and good, focusing on the positive always remembering the glass is half full, not half empty. . .or maybe the glass is full, maybe it's always been full.

Thanks for a great article. It keeps me inspired and focused.

Sincerely,
Grace

Amen Dr. Ben. May everyone heed your words...

Firstly, it takes a closed mind to label you, Dr. K, as a dumbass. Even if I did not agree with your opinion on the subject matters you blog about, I simply read it, think about it, accept it as another opinion out there and carry on with my own thoughts. What I respect most is that your words are not forceful or gimmicky. You are by far a very reasonable and cogent health professional. Your opinions are always well put in a simple manner and I never get a sense that they are trying to persuade me in any sense. This makes your blogs most appreciated and respectable. Thanks Doc --keep rocking it.

Dear Dr. Kim,
I appreciate all you do for preventative health care.
I am sorry that people can be so rude.
It seems they are the real dumb a****s for sticking that awful vaccination in their H1N1's!

Firstly, it takes a closed mind to label you, Dr. K, as a dumbass. Even if I did not agree with your opinion on the subject matters you blog about, I simply read it, think about it, accept it as another opinion out there and carry on with my own thoughts. What I respect most is that your words are not forceful or gimmicky. You are by far a very reasonable and cogent health professional. Your opinions are always well put in a simple manner and I never get a sense that they are trying to persuade me in any sense. That makes your blogs most appreciated and respectable. Thanks Doc --keep rocking it.

The fact that you should get e-mails that attack you for your well thought out common-sense based accurate reading on the flu shot defines the exact reason the western world is in such a mess. We have a bunch of overeducated self-proclaimed know it alls who willingly jump on any band wagon that promotes their profession. It starts at the economic level and trickles all the way down. Thank you for not being so misguided.

Sincerely
Anna K, RDH

Dear Dr. Kim,
I just watched Dr Mehmet Oz get an H1N1 flu shot on his show (The Dr. Oz Show) just minutes ago. I could not believe my eyes. He offers so much advice about how to avoid toxic chemicals in our homes and in our food yet he goes on national TV (here in the U.S.) and gets a dose of mercury, possibly squalene plus countless other harmful garbage.
Who is the real D A !
I will not get any vaccine. My son (15 months) is also not vaccinated and he is doing great. He has no ear infections, no asthma, no allergies, no autism, no GI distress, no seizures. He is also still breastfeeding which I believe helps his immune system.
I have learned so much from your writings especially when you write about your boys. Please write more articles for us new moms who need advice regarding childhood issues.
Thanks again for all you do. You provide all of us with awesome information so that we can all live long healthy lives.

While the major news sources here in USA promote fear and injections, CBS News did a 3 month investigation, finding that most cases attributed to H1N1 were not that AT ALL:

http://www.cbsnews.com/blogs/2009/10/21/politics/politicalhotsheet/entry5406025.shtml?tag=cbsnewsTwoColUpperPromoArea

Sadly, they concluded that the public should get their shot even if they had the "flu" as they didn't likely have H1N1 flu. It seems the CDC has assumed since July that a flu-like disease must be H1N1 flu. The state health departments at least kept some records worth examining.

Thank you, Dr. Kim, for your cool-headed and well thought out articles!

This is exactly how I feel about it. I recently was sick and think it was H1N1. I had chills and slight headache for a night. I am in my late 40's. My Daughters 16 and 19 both had it. They had chills/slight fever several nights. We take our vitamin D and multivitamins. I, like you, think this whole H1N1 thing is a sham. I pray for those unfortunate enough to get the vaccine because I really think it will do long term damage. Do some research and find out what bad things are really in it. No one needs to get excited about this.

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! for voicing your opinion on the H1N1 vaccine. Not everyone I know agrees with my decision that I have made NOT to vaccinate myself or my children. It's nice to know their are other people out there making decisions for themselves and not letting the government make it for them.

Thanks, Dr. Kim, for your articles. I agree with you 100%!

Dr. Kim,
I hope you get a thousand supportive emails for each derogatory one you received! I would bet that the authors of those who called you a name have not researched for themselves the H1N1 flu shot to get balanced information.
Thank you for all the wonderful, helpful information you give in your newsletter!

Sue Peterson

I am a healthy person also and am not "black mailed" by our governemnt and the news media into getting a shot I've never needed and don't need now. Thank you Dr. Kim for not succombing to such media-hype and black mail as we have had about the flu.

Dr. Kim,

Most insightful, you couldn't have stated all of this more clearly. Boost your immune system - be as healthy as possible. Thank you for all of this information and thoughts for all of us to ponder over. I will not be getting any vaccine either.

Thank you so much Dr.Kim for your fair and balanced observations and experience on the H1N1 virus and positive steps to stay healthy. As a Naturopathic Physician my motto is: It has to make good sense and be good science. Most of what we hear every day doesn't fall into either of those categories. I tell my friends, family and clients exactly what you have observed and recommended and often refer them to your web site. Years ago I was vilified for questioning yearly mammograms and now we have better information that health care is becoming brave enough to publish, about the pitfalls of this practice. You are willing to stand firmly in your well informed, well researched and common sense approach to wellness care. Thank you.
Morgaine Hager, RDH, ND

Dr. Kim,

I laughed when you said it was the nurses that called you a dumb ass, because those are the people that I work with. I am one of the few nurses out there against vaccinations, and I agree with you on all this mess. People are so darn scared of getting the flu, they forget to eat right, exercise, etc, and say oh I'll just get this toxic shot that "protects" me. Really, do people really think it's that easy? Just get a shot and that's it. I don't think so. I'm sorry but ppl can really be so ignorant and brainwashed by "big pharma" who brainwashes the docs who then brainwash the nurses who brainwash the patients. Does anyone think for themselves anymore? I know it's hard to believe that the drug companies want to inject as many ppl as they can for a buck, but ITS TRUE. The general public are basically a bunch of hamsters saying oh inject me, pretty please so I don't get this killer virus (but I'm going to keep smoking my cigs and eating cheeseburgers and not going outside or exercising). And then they get the flu and die from pneumonia because their body is a sack of jello that can't defend itself. I also have to say the one person I saw in the ICU on a ventilator with diagnosis of "swine flu" was said participating in recreational activities (drugs).

I am a nurse and I love your postings. I've had one flu shot in my life and that fall and winter I caught very illness that came around. I've never been that sick before.

Dear Dr. Kim,

Thank you for your informative article. I have never had a flu shot and have only had the flu maybe 3 or 4 times in my life (60 years young). I believe that the human body is a self-healing machine when give the proper nutritional support.

Keep up your good works and remember that people's judgements are a reflection of who they are not the person being judged.

Best Regards,
Vickie

I'm a nurse and there is no way I would get a shot like this for myself or my family.

Everyone needs to take responsibility for their own health. Read and study before you just listen to the government. If you decide to get the shot, at least you've made a conscious decision. God gave us a brain for a reason.

Thanks for a great article. I am a nurse. And am not getting the shots.. either of them. I already have some kind of immune issue that the docs cannot seem to figure out. The 3 years I got the flu shots, in a row.. where 3 years that I was out of work 3 months each year - sick with respiratory problems. Last year I declined and my docs were not happy. I was out a total of 2 one week time periods, treated with chinese herbs from my Accupunturist, grapefruit seed oil, the greens and vit C sold here,got rid of the sweets, and put my self to bed.The use of a neti pot with hypertonic saline ( 3 tsp unadulterated salt to 1 liter of distilled water with 6-8 drops of grapefruit seed oil is very helpful. ( had cultured aspergillis in my sinus) and have even used the hypertonic saline plain in a nebulizer for the lung issue. Simple, cheap and effective. And a whole lot safer. Did you know that it is taking DAYS for swine flu culture results to some back from the health dept? The rapid test is for the usual strains of flu. So the diagnosis in many cases is just guessing that the symptoms are swine flu, not actual fact. If the symptoms seems severe.. then they are calling it H1N1. The scare tactics are crazy thinking.
Thank you Dr Kim for being a the voice of reason.

I am convinced that the ones that get it have to shout down others that question getting the shots as loudly and rudely as possible to cover their own fears about what they did to themselves (and in the nurse's case, what they are doing to others).

My family and I have not had flu shots in over a decade and do not get the flu. This year in case it got bad I made sure to start including astragulus in our meals early, made some homemade cough syrup ( onion, garlic, and ginger in dehydrated raw cane juice parfait style) and planted some holy basil. As I understand it from traditional media today the swine flu has peaked already so all my prep may have been for naught! I will say that I know a lot of people who got their flu shots and have come down with swine flu!

I can say that under no circumstances will I be getting vaccinated because the last time I had to be vaccinated for work a few years ago the doctor told me no more vaccines. I ended up in the emergency room with anaphylaxis. The choice is already made for me!

Dr. Kim, although I disagree with your view on H1N1 vaccination for children, (I'm one of those mean RN's,haha) I appreciate your positive, non-judgmental attitude. I'm appalled you were called names! I wish we could all respect each others educated beliefs and not feel the need to convince others to adopt our political, religious, and now flu views! I practice under two pediatricians in CO. The vast majority of our patients do vaccinate for flu due to exposure of worldwide tourists, etc. We treat a highly educated population so I stay on top of the latest info. Thimerosal is a preservative that is used in multi-dose vials, which we don't use. We use a single dose Seasonal Flu immunization for kids 6 mos to 2 yrs-no thimerosal. We administer single use dose Seasonal Flumist, and H1N1 Mist, both nasal sprays, for patients over 2 yrs, again, no thimerosal.

You mentioned newborns and the elderly receiving H1N1 vaccine. Newborns cannot receive either seasonal of H1N1 flu vaccine; Babies don't receive a flu vaccine until they are at least six mos. The elderly are in the lowest risk group, per CDC and thus far, we aren't allowed to administer it to them.

#1 risk group is pregnant women, as they are dying, and/or on ventilators all around the US
#2 Household caregivers of babies less than 6 mos since they can't be immunized
#3 Healthcare workers
#4 Children 6 mos to 4 and anyone with health problems such as asthma and diabetes (we just got this word yesterday, as there is a temp vaccine shortage)
#5 people up to age 24, as this flu is particularly dangerous for this age group

I cut/pasted this bit from the CDC website regarding the elderly. "Current studies indicate that the risk for infection among persons age 65 or older is less than the risk for younger age groups. However, once vaccine demand among younger age groups has been met, programs and providers should offer vaccination to people 65 or older." I knew you would want me to clear up some parts in your article.

There is a reason one of the names of this flu is "Novel H1N1." It is a strange, scary flu. You're right that many people have recovered just fine. But I watched the 60 Minutes episode where one boy on a football team was fighting for his life on a ventilator. All of the other kids came down with the flu to varying degrees. This boy had no underlying illness. It is very random. My doctors have put kids in the hospital, and none had underlying health issues. They all recovered eventually, but I would just as soon my kids not get it all. We have a full on epidemic in our small town, and I don't like the words random and novel. I'm biased, though, I 100% believe vaccines save lives. I value your opinion, I just wanted to clear up some of your information about the thimerosal.

I hope you have a wonderful evening, and I'll keep reading!! You're a great man, and NOT a dumb a**!

Dr. Kim, hopefully you are a man of steel. Your assessment and position regarding flu vaccines present the side of this equation that obviously challenges some who feel differently. I, for one, am in complete agreement with all that you have said. Even in my own environment, I am sometime held under suspicion for declining the flu shot.

I admire how you rationally handled your response to those who believe differently. Keep sharing your research, your findings, and the truth for all of us who are seeking and appreciate it when we receive it. Thank you!!!

Blessings,
Mrs. Brown

I totally agree with you, I have faced many hard words from people I tried to warn about the dangers of the H1N1 flu shot too, it's the reign of the "pensée unique", the government do so much propaganda rigth now, it's amazing to see the panic they want to create to push people to get their H1N1 flu shot. Thanks for your balanced but clear article. I have shared your article to my facebook contacts.

God bless you,

Pastor Nancy

Love the article! It's nice to see some thought put into an article like this instead of the fear-based decisions most are making. I have 3 daughters and chose not to vaccinate at all after much research. I had many friends who thought I was making a stupid choice, but I soon came to realize that these same friends vaccinated their kids because the doctors told them to, NOT because they looked into it themselves and thought it to be a wise choice. An informed choice is ALWAYS the best choice. Thank you for giving us more information so that we might see both sides of the picture and make our choices INFORMED choices.

Dr Kim, Thank you for your information. You are certainly not the dumb ass, they are. Just wait until they find out all the side effects this is going to have on people. I am so sick of the news, newspapers & even our president encouraging everyone to get the shot. The drug companies are all doing a dance, counting their money. They have made so much on this "pandemic" they can't even count it.

Congratulations on your wisdom and intelligence in helping to dispel the fear that the government(s) and some, (fortunately not all), health care "professionals" are seeding.

I was involved in a college journalism program - the teacher was a former Toronto Star employee and thought he was hot stuff - he told us all how to skew the statistics to support whatever flea brained idea we might create. He also lauded Carleton University as spawning fantastic journalists - just read the Ottawa Citizen newspaper sometime to dispel that rumor. Lousy writing, poor grammar, incorrect spelling and their news coverage is biased and strictly selective.

But, hey, wait a minute..... medical "professionals" and "journalists" need job security don't they? Aren't they backed up by the pharmaceutical power mongers who stand to make billions from the vaccines - does anyone wonder where the H1N1 flu was started or who started it????

May I say that if you have medical "professionals" writing you rude e-mails Dr. Kim, it only proves how drone-like these individuals are with their perpetration of fear to instigate compliance and dissuade independent and healthy thought and action.

It is my prerogative whether or not to choose to involve myself with vaccination and I choose not to do this. I believe that healthy diet, exercise and cleanliness go a long way to prevent disease. And I also use alternate health care and have experienced success with acupuncture treatments.

Thank you for sharing your work and advice. It is much appreciated.

Dr. Kim, I would like to thank you for all of your input, about not only the flu shot but everything. Your writings are very informative and easy to understand. I think it is great that you not only give your opinion but also explain why you feel that way, so that we can make our own educated opinion. Every time a medical issue come up in my family I like to research it, and your site is the first and sometimes only place I go. Thank you for all your input I really appreciate all of the time and effort you put into your writings, you truly have a gift.
Thank You
Pat

Dr Kim
I don't always agree with you but I respect your opinions!
Thimerosal can be avoided by taking the nasal spray and the kind of mercury in thimerosal is different from the kind in tuna etc. so your concerns are less justified but you already know this.
The last time I didn't get a flu shot, I got very, very sick with the flu.
Since then for the past 12 years, I've gotten the flu shots early and no flu.
This year I got the annual flu shot in August, the earliest ever!
I will get either the nasal or shot for HiNi.
Good luck with your strategy as well.

Dr. McDonald

Dr. Kim, you are NOT a dumb ass...(of course you know this). There are hundreds if not thousands of us who value your advice and feel you're a voice of reason in all of this craziness. The local news (I am in Chicago as are you) is just out of control with the news stories about this "pandemic". It just drives me nuts, and I like have tried to ignore all of the hype, but it is just everywhere and hard to ignore. Negitive thoughts are not healthy!!

Please keep giving your sound and healthy advice, your voice promoting wellness will prevail and the tide will turn in what we refer to the health care (actually illness care) system in the US.
Thank you for all you do.

Warm regards,
Nancie

Here is one RN that totally agrees with your view on the flu and related vaccines. I believe it is primarily a media and pharmaceutical extravaganza. I appreciate your suggestions for maintaining a healthy immune system and a healthy outlook. I dont think the US would be whining so much about health care if it really had anything to do with the health of humans instead of the health care of the "illness care" industry.

Dear Dr Ben Kim.
Thank you for your wisdom and your insights which are well received and very much appreciated. I think you have such a beautiful spirit-filled perspective on life and health.
Many people shudder at the thought of having to take responsibility for their health. If there is a quick fix like an injection and they can continue to abuse their bodies and minds, that seems to be many people's choice.
The key is choice here, I don't hear you calling those who choose to get shots are "ds". That just goes to show your respectful nature to others.
I think you will always get people that swear by the flu shot and swear by not taking it. More importantly, what else are we doing on a day to day measure for our total health?
Anita from Calgary

Thank you for all the information you provide on a variety of topics, including H1N1, that makes me think about my choices. I've had mixed feelings about flu shots for a long time. The two times that I had the shot I experienced bad reactions, especially at the injection site--I was miserable. And to make it even worse, one time after getting a flu vaccine I got the flu anyway! I'm choosing not to get the shots this year for me or my teenage daughter. I agree with you that being healthy is the best defense.

Dr. Kim,

I once heard a saying that when someone is pointing their finger at you, they have 3 fingers pointing back at themselves. As an Acupuncture student and Holistic Health Practitioner/Massage Therapist, I look up to doctors such as yourself who are not afraid of voicing their opinions, even if it's not "popular" to do so. I truly believe you are one of the few following the Hippocratic Oath to "do no harm." Please keep up your grass-roots efforts of paving the way for truth in a world filled with deception and greed. This is the only way we will begin to see change in the health and well-being of humanity.

Much Respect to you and your family.

Dr Kim, I do not think you are dumb.
Pharmaceutical companies make vaccines.
Have any of your readers ever asked the question, "Who makes biological weapons for war?"

Thakn you for so much time and effort to give this valuable information. I am so glad to be receiving your health letters. They are the best and I often enjoy your recipes too. Thank you so much!

I love what you stand for, don't let uninformed people get to you. I have noticed it's the so called educated Dr's and Nurses that are still in the dark ages as far as how to stay healthy.

I am 59 years old and cannot remember the last time I was sick(I have never had a flu shot) It's all in how you take care of yourself not how many shots or meds you are taking.

Don't let people like that bother you, you are a lot of peoples HERO we love who you are and what you stand for.

Annie

Bravo Dr.Kim you put down in wiritng exactly what my friends and I have been concerned about with the swine flu shot. I don't know of anyone who is going to get the shot. We believe it was put together too quickly and because this virus is like no other that we have had to deal with how can they know that the ingrediants are not going to cause some health problems in the months and years to come. After your last post on what the ingrediants are there is no way I will put them into my body. I tuly believe what you are saying about good old common sense as far as living and eating healthy and doing the right thing all the time. Our bodies have a natural immune system that if taken care of should protect us from just about anything. Thank you for "sticking your nose out there" I admire you for the work you do and hope you will continue for many years to come. JoAnn Flanery

You're doing a grand job informing people, don't be discouraged by the DAs calling you a DA... that's all they know :)

My kids (16 and 12 y-o) have NEVER taken an antibiotic. They have had a few paracetamols in their lives, that's all. Guess what... they NEVER get sick. When the flu comes, they have a sore troat for a day or two, an evening of fever maybe, their glands swell up but in three days they're as good as new. A few homeopathic drops, herbal teas and essential oils in their bath, good organic food - that's what it takes to have healthy kids.
They never had the mandatory vaccination shots either. The eldest daughter had one when she was two, then I decided not to continue. Result: healthy immune systems.

Keep doing what you do... the battle will rage stronger but be assured that you're not alone.
Thank you.

I too will not give my kids this shot. I will not go into a state of panic like the rest of the world. If we research the deaths, almost all of them will have died of the n1h1 flu with complications of something else. Why cant they have died of lyme disease that worsened by the flu? In my opinion the media is our enemy right now. They are making simple problems into major ones. The fact is each year alot of people die from many things that could be prevented like the flu. My saying is "they all take common sense out of the equation." When this happens you have nothing to work with. Even if you dont eat right, there are thing to do to stay healthy. We all learned what to do in kindergarden. Wash your hands with soap and water, cover your mouth with your arm or sleeve when you cough and sneeze, do not drink from others cups and get plenty of sleep.
COMMON SENSE to staying healthy.
I am sorry people resort to immaturaty and call you names.
Ive always learned from you and will continue to take in your opinion and use what I can.
Thank you for sharing your mind with us.

Dr. Kim-

I found your blog on the H1N1 flu vaccine very enlightening. I had been moved by media and the President at first to think this was a serious issue, but the more I read from you along with others who are talking about the media blitzes, misinformation, raises a great many questions.

I cannot help but wonder if the deaths were truly caused by other factors. And of course the media never tell you what those other factors are, might be, or so forth. They merely build it up with emotional appeal.

My own children have not had the vaccine, and they certainly won't be taking it now. My husband's work just ran out and he will not be taking it either. I never get a flu vaccine because the first time I received one I had my throat swell and ended up in the emergency room being told it wasn't possibly the vaccine. I have never fully believed it to be something else other then that vaccine. And in all the years that I've not gotten the flu shot, I've only had minor colds but nothing major.

Thank you again for the wisdom you share with your readers. My family thanks you.

Namaste-Sara

I thank you for speaking your truth & wisdom. I agree with you totally, and I am an RN.

Dr. Kim: I have never gotten a flu shot and I have not recommended them to my children. As a 52 year old woman who grew up during the antibiotic craze that swept our country in the late 60s and 70s and having sustained major traumatic physical backlash to my immune system from these musch-dispensed drugs I have learned to ALWAYS question when the government/media begin screaming "EMERGANCY! EMERGANCY! DO IT OR DIE!!!" Through my own experience I have come to understand that ALL of these mass expressions are fuled by the phamacological companies who, in my humble opinion, are no better than the big oil companies. I am afraid that I have a much harder time being kind than you do, Dr. Kim. I am angry that I am suffering from painful alements now that could have been prevented had my parants not been brainwashed into thinking that they HAD to give me all of the drugs that came down the pike. Don't do it. If you are worried then take a look at your life habits now and evaluate where you need to make some radical changes. Give up the refined sugar and flour. Get out in the sun and walk. Take vitamin C and garlic and drink water.I could go on and on and these are all things that I have had to do for myself and....slowly.....I am making my way back to the healthy, whole woman that I was born to be. H1N1, "regular" flu, AIDs, cancer, poverty, lack of clean water and all of the other horrible things out there that plague us as humans during our time on this planet...cannot be denied and it is very sad when someone dies from ANY of these and more. I just plead with everyone to do more research. Ask more questions. Make healthier choices and DON'T just do it becasue you read it in the newspaper or were told to by the guy with the perfect hair on the evening news!

Dr Kim,
You are certainly not a dumb a**. My Mom has been suffering a chronic lung ailment ever since she had a flu shot two years ago.
I always consider who will profit the most from scaring the population into getting millions of flu shots. We (Americans) have become sheep. We flock together and do whatever we are told to do. I wish more people were like you and used the brains they were given to decide for themselves.
I admire you for speaking out. Keep up the great work! We need you!

hey Dr.Kim
Just want to say I agree. I'm 23 and have never in my entire life had a flu shot and never had "the flu" for more than a day or two (if it even was the flu). So to those on the fence, just keep yourself healthy and then you don't have to worry about any diseases because your body will be able to handle them all. - brett

I watched the "Doctor's Tv" show regarding the H1N1 virus/vaccine and they even showed the ingredients in it and how its made and they said it was safe. But you seem to make a lot of sense too. A little confusion is wondering in my brain now. Is it safe or not? According to CDC, its escalating and alarming. I just need more clearance on this H1N1vaccine. I don't want to harm my body with chemicals or anything unsafe.

I agree one hundred percent ,you shouldn't have to get a flu shot for any reason and shouldn't feel pressured by your employer either to get one. They are really pushing it in the hospitals and care homes -I work in a care home and I don't feel I should have to follow the rest of the sheep but I don't think it right for the employer to turn around and say okay if you don't get the flu shot and we get the flu going around than you can't come in to work till it's over (which could be 2 - 3 weeks ) and who can afford that ?

Bottom line is this...if people aren't calling you stupid, crazy, or a dumb *ss, then you probably aren't doing anything worthwhile. Dare to be great and speak the truth. Those are the only people that make a difference. Keep it up man. You know way more about what you are talking about than the people who ridicule you.

Go Dr. Ben Kim! Don't be itimidated to speak the truth as you know it... I know it too, and so does anyone who have taken the time to do a little research of their own and who practices common sense when we see big drug companies making big money on cheap products once again. Evil prevails only when good men sit back and do nothing. Thanks Dr. for allowing us a website we can go to time and time again for truth. God bless you. And just this week, my aunt's 8 year old daughter came down with flu symptoms. The little girl was taken to the doctor where she was told she had swine flu and her mother was given antibiotics to give her. My aunt decided to stick with regular cold medicine and fresh vegetable soups, rest and time. The little girl started feeling better within 2 days without antibiotics or a flu shot.

I am so happy to hear that you are NOT getting any type of Flu shot.
It shows that you DO walk your talk.
I am so proud of you and all others out there that do the reseach to find out what is really happeninng.
Peace and happiness to you.

Dr. Kim- Thank you for all your research, work, and clear voice through the internet....these articles i receive validate everything i have come to know and strongly believe in through my own listening, reading, investigations; and especially explorations through nature. Our relationship to the plant nation at this time is essential for our survival as species. We must listen with open mind and heart for what is being broadcast. Your information along with your compassion serves us well and teaches what truth and integrity can be.

Dr Ben

Good for you. People may not like to hear "the other side", but it is so critical; especially in health care. You've served a true informed consent for your readers. As Voltaire said "its dangerous to be right in matters on which the accepted authorities are wrong"

Doc

You've challenged the fundamental flaw of Western healthcare: you can not create health by fighting disease anymore than you can create healthy marriages by banning divorce.

I'm an Public Health Nurse and I agree with your response that it's a personal choice on taking the vaccine and knowing why one chooses to get a vaccine. A little off topic - but what is your stance Dr. Kim on other vaccines such as MMR, tetanus, HPV? does your view on the H1N1 vaccine reflect how you feel about other vaccines we give in first world countries?

Thank you for writing. It's especially important to me when doctors and health professionals speak out.

Here's more information on two items:
1. Re. what kills people, a friend directed me to the American Lung Association website and this link http://tinyurl.com/alaflutrends. The ALA's fact sheet states:
# Page 4: "For the second year in a row, pneumonia and influenza together remained the eighth leading cause of death in the U.S. in 2005. Pneumonia consistently accounts for the overwhelming majority of these deaths. In 2005, 61,189 people died from pneumonia and 1,812 people died from influenza."
# Page 4 bottom: "For the 65 and over population, pneumonia and influenza are the sixth leading cause of death. Close to 90% of deaths due to these diseases occur in this age group. Very few deaths are attributed to influenza in the population under age 55. As seen in the 2005 mortality statistics, the highest death rate for influenza is in those over age 85."
# Page 9: See actual number of deaths from flu alone.

2. Re. mercury in tuna (methyl mercury) is a different mercury than the one in thimerisol (ethyl mercury). While some is known about methyl and how it acts in the body, almost none is known about ethyl... so, instead of researching ethyl, vaccine makers have assumed it behaves the same as methyl. Then they inject it into babies' bodies. That's vaccine science in a nutshell.

Good to laugh about this ridiculous fear-mongering!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SIjm9w_-tNY

I agree with you Dr. Kim. Keep up the good work!
Ad BTW I am pregnant and therefore would not go NEAR this or any other shot!

I agree with dr. kim about death statistics. My own mother went to the hospital to have a tumor removed from her lung. She was malnourished and hated doctors so didn't have any tests for several months and by that time was pretty bad off. She made it through the surgery but died of a staff infection a week later. On her death certificate it said lung cancer as the cause of death when sepsis was the true cause. Also my MIL died of a stroke but it was only after they took her off her blood thinners to do a surgery on her diabetic leg. Her cause of death - stroke, but in my mind, complications due to type I diabetes. Poor food choices also contributed to both.
I recently spoke to my sister's niece and she informed me that both she and her 5yo son got the H1N1 shot. When I asked her why, she told me the pediatrician had scared her by telling her that she had lost two patients to the h1N1 already. It made me ask what was wrong with those patients and that maybe this is not a very good doctor. Of course this own girls mother gets a flu shot every year and never gets the flu so that doesn't help. She also does nasal irrigation and I told her that is probably the real reason she doesn't get the flu. Keep up the good work Dr. Kim. I am glad that you use your head and don't just blindly take orders from people who you easily could.

I note that the letters now posted are all favorable. I wrote in and my letter was not posted. While I will always enjoy and learn from your newsletter, I do disagree on your advising people not to get the flu shot. Many people die from the flu each year and the flu shot has prevented many deaths.
My original letter stated that your influence could sway someone who then may die from the flu. You have a right to your opinion but it is a big responsibility that falls on your shoulders when you get into the vaccine debate. It is different than promoting healthy lifestyles.
Also your article stated that exercise and a healthy lifesyle would prevent the flu. That is little solace to a parent who has lost his child due to swine flu.

Love your emails!! Relate to you totally..Thanks
Susan