Scientists Guess Wrong on Flu Shot Influenza

Months before flu season, experts gather to identify which strains of influenza might affect populations in the coming year. The approach covers most vaccine recipients between 40% to 60% of the time, a solid coverage compared to most vaccines. Creating the vaccine is a complex process that can sometimes end with a useless vaccine, as it did this year. Though the vaccine is only 10% effective, experts still recommend the shot and regular hand-washing to prevent infection.