"Former 'Flu Shot Cheerleader' Returns with Urgent Warning"
Originally Published 2 years ago — by NBC News
Desiree Jennings, known as the "Flu Shot Cheerleader," gained national attention when she claimed that a flu vaccine caused her to develop dystonia, a neurological movement disorder. Her story went viral, with media outlets repeating her unverified claims about the vaccine. However, doctors expressed doubt about her diagnosis, suggesting that her symptoms may be psychogenic or stress-related. The media storm occurred during the H1N1 flu pandemic, providing an opportunity for the anti-vaccine movement to expand their message. Desiree aligned herself with the movement, but the promised documentary warning against vaccines was never made.