This is in response to Jim Gurney stating “ignorance can kill” and his disappointment the paper printed a letter [Leader, Feb. 15] he didn’t approve of regarding flu shots.

First, the letter he disapproved of was just that, a letter. Each of us is entitled to our opinion and beliefs. Second, I agree with the writer of the letter warning about flu shots. I have had three flu shots in my adult life and every time I got the flu, ran a temp of 104 and was laid out for weeks.

My doctor told me to never get a flu shot again because my system can’t handle them. I seriously doubt I am the only person to have this reaction, and I am convinced the flu shot gives some people the flu, based on my own experience.

I also find it interesting that this year, about two-thirds of the people who got the flu also received the flu shot. The paper also ran an article stating it wasn’t too late to get the flu shot, and people would be given an antiviral at the same time. Why would someone need an antiviral if the shot doesn’t give you the flu?

I think the “ignorance can kill” remark is true, but I have a different take on it. Many people seem to believe if they get the flu shot, they are protected from getting the flu. This is simply not true, and we see examples of it every year.

I’m not going to tell people to get a flu shot, and I’m certainly not going to condemn them if they don’t. It’s a personal choice. I will never get another flu shot and I have good reasons for my decision, including my doctor’s advice.

STELLA BENEFIDEO

Port Townsend