Having a flu shot for influenza may give you protection against thrombosis. According to a study conducted by the researchers of University Paris Descartes, the flu shot protected against two types of blood clots - deep vein thrombosis i. e. clotting in the leg and pulmonary embolism i. e. clot in the lungs in by 26% of cases under review.

More than 1400 patients were included in the research. It was found that the flu shot reduced the occurrence of blood clots in 52 years old by 48%. Whereas in women under 51 it was 50% and 59% in women taking oral contraceptive pills.

Emmerich and his team presented the findings at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2008 in New Orleans, La.

"Our study suggests for the first time that vaccination against influenza may reduce the risk of venous thrombotic embolism (VTE)," as blood clots are also known, lead study author Dr. Joseph Emmerich said in a statement.

According to the lead researcher, Emmerich, they are yet to find out how the shot lowers the risk of blood clotting. This was in the pipeline.

One theory that supports the claim of the researchers is that influenza can trigger inflammation in the body. This can result in clotting. Since the shot acts against flu and inflammation, it might be helping in reducing clotting risks.