The holiday season is here, and unfortunately, that means flu season is here as well. Influenza (flu)is an infectious disease that causes coughing, headache, fatigue and muscle aches in its victims. Let's face it, nobody likes having the flu. Whether you are a workaholic or a stay-at-home mom, the flu can interrupt your life. Fortunately for you, there is a way around the fatigue, fever and aching muscles that plague us annually.

Flu vaccinations have been used commonly since the 1950s when the World Health Organization set up the Global Influenza Surveillance Network. The WHO Network secures newly mutated specimens of the virus and ships them all over the world for use in developing new vaccines. Millions of people receive flu vaccinations every year but should you be one of them? Take a look at the pros and cons of getting a flu vaccination so that you can make an informed choice for yourself and your family. -delgie jones II

	PROS   CONS Reduces visits to the doctor to have flu-related symptoms treated. Keep your perfect attendance record at work or school intact. Reduces mortality rates for elderly, children and immuno-compromised people. There is still a possibility of becoming sick with a different strain of the virus even after being vaccinated. The vaccine contains mercury, a toxic substance that with excessive exposure could cause other health problems. There is a slight possibility of having an allergic reaction to the vaccination. If you are still unsure about whether a flu vaccination is right for you, consult your doctor.