Here’s why the 2017 flu season was so bad in Australia

[AussieNeil]

Australia has recorded 221,853 flu infections so far in 2017, more than any other year. This article analyses why the 2017 flu vaccine wasn't as effective as hoped, and how flu vaccines are formulated, including critically how long it takes (which makes forecasting which strains will be active and thus should be included in the vaccine),

theconversation.com/heres-w...

These words by Ian M. Mackay, Adjunct assistant professor, The University of Queensland and Katherine Arden, Virologist, The University of Queensland particularly apply to us - more so given we are also immune compromised by our CLL: 'Flu virus infection directly damages cells and paves the way for bacterial infections. The elderly are particularly affected by the flu because an older immune system struggles to defend against infections; specialised immune cells are less effective, less able to respond to new viruses and prefer reminiscing about past viral battles which confuse new skirmishes.

An ageing immune system also loses vaccine-induced antibody protection faster than a younger one.'

Neil

Photo: Sun setting just before I videoed the rare phenomenon a green flash as it set. The place where I'm staying now must have a reputation for often providing green flashes because I often see photographers recording the sunset. On one night I saw three photographers with expensive cameras on tripods set up to record the event.

youtu.be/lwus2nqU0SY?t=79(Not working as expected?)

[AmericanRonin]

Beautiful sunset video!

[Spacee]

Awesome, never heard of the green flash before!

Spacee

[starsafta]

Gorgeous photo, Neil. Lucky you to live near this incredible view. Thanks so much for sharing some of the beautiful Australian sites.

As for the article, rather than encouraging me to get a shot, it seems to confirm why I've never had one. I count on everyone else getting one. But that's just me, and I don't discourage others. Word on the street, at least in my area, leads me to believe that compliance is better in the US.

[Bubnojay]

Hi Neil

I work on the basis some protection is better than none, especially if it is a flu virus new to the body. However we are all in control of decisions about vaccines, it is important to still use our extra hygiene care and avoid crowds where possible whether vaccinated or not.

Great capture of the green flash.

Bubnjay1

[Kwenda]

I have also seen the green flash at sunrise and also with a full moon rise.

One has to study the information on the exact compass position and be VERY lucky with the weather.

The science behind the green flash is the same for sunrise, sunset and moon rise.

Dick

[virdieblue]

I was thrilled to see a green flash in the Caribbean. I thought it was an optical illusion and am surprised it can be photographed!

Virginia

[tracey_123]

Neil, you must live on the West Australian Coast, we saw this a few years back from taking a Cruise down the West Coast, just lovely.

[Rex12]

Very worthwhile having the annual flue jabs. Whilst looking after my granddaughter she became very ill, extremely high temp. A visit to the local GP and nose swab confirmed Flue Virus Brisbane B which was covered this winter by the flue vaccine. Despite the close proximity, I came out unscathed.

Have been lucky enough to see the green flash a few times and as the sun is setting I always look to repeat the experience!