Kent County(WZZM)-There's growing debate over the flu vaccine- after a health care worker refused to get the shot.

WZZM 13 News first reported Monday night at 6pm about a Spectrum Health worker who refused the shot, based on religious reasons. The hospital rejected her claim and under Spectrum's policy she could now be fired.

The story has since generated numerous comments on the website. Some think that it's ridiculous to "require" a flu shot. Others say the company is being responsible when it comes to its patients. But, no matter what the opinion is about it being "required", some say it's not necessary.

At "Holistic Care Approach" in Grand Rapids, the staff believes in a natural way of healing. For Owner Barbara Meconis, the number one question is about the flu shot. "Our opinion is, whatever you can do naturally, is more supportive to the human body."

Meconis is a Registered Nurse, who worked for a local hospital for many years. She wasn't always against the flu vaccine. "I think my stance has changed over the years, based on research, listening to evidence on both sides of the immunization issues."

Meconis doesn't think there has been enough testing on the flu vaccines currently being offered to the public. "So, is the benefit worth the risk in getting vaccines that are out on the market that are not proven to be entirely safe?"

"I don't think it's proven to be a risk", says Dr. John Voss of the West Michigan Center for Family Health. He recommends everyone get a flu shot. "If they asked my opinion, yes, I think it's worth the protection."

Dr. Voss believes the seasonal flu and the h1n1 vaccines are safe. "The risk of not getting the vaccine and having illness is greater than the risk associated with the vaccine."

Back at "Holistic Care Approach", the opposite is believed to be true. Barb Meconis says your natural immune system is best. "Eat more fruits and vegetables, take Vitamin D, saltwater rinse, and if you do these things, even if you do get exposed, you're body's going to mount a strong immune response and the risk of the flu, is minimal."

As for the issue of health care workers getting flu shots, Dr. Voss would recommend all of them get vaccinated because they deal with the public and are around people who are sick. As far as them being "required" to get a flu vaccine, he thinks it should be a personal choice.

Spectrum Health has said it's mandating the flu vaccine for the safety of its patients.

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