My wife just tested positive for the flu. she's had a shot.i have not.i believe i have it now. should i be worried? i haven't had a shot in 20+yrs.

If you don't : have any major health problems you'll probably just be miserable for a few days, if the shot didn't protect your wife it probably wouldn't have protected you either

Influenza: try not to worry. Drink lots of fluids. Take Tylenol (acetaminophen) as needed for fever and body aches. Get rest as much as possible. If fever persists or symptoms get worse see your doctor to check for secondary infections. And if you are early in your illness,a medicine called tamiflu is available by prescription which will shorten the severity and duration of the illness. Next year get the flu shot!

No, Unless you have: an underlying disease that can be exacerbated by flu, such as diabetes or asthma, in which case you should make annual vaccination a priority. If you are able to contact your doctor or call into HealthTap prime you will probably be a candidate for anti infuenza drugs either amatidine or tamiflu (oseltamivir). The drugs need to be initiated in the first 48 hours after onset of fever to have a meaningful effect.

How sick are you?: Most people recover completely from influenza. Avoid smoking. Use little or no alcohol. If you become very sick, see a DR. Why not get a Flu shot every year? It is easy, inexpensive, safe, and reduces risk from influenza. People who get it every year have progressively better resistance.

No problem: The shot didn't do your wife much good, did it? I'm not a great believer in immunizations. Don't recommend them for my patients. Take 10,000 IU Vit D3, and 100,000 IU of Vitamin A for a week or so, then cut back to 5,000 D3 and 10,000 A thereafter. 3-5,000 mg of Vit C may help. Otherwise, treat symptomatically.

Get tested promptly: You are at risk of having acquired flue, especially because you have not had any flu vaccination for years. If you think you are coming down with flu it is prudent to get evaluated, tested, and treated if appropriate. If you do not have a physician who can see you within a day or so, please go to nearest Emergency Department or Urgent Care.