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Facts on Flu Shots

Source: http://www.cdc.gov/nip/flu

How much do you really know about the flu?
Don’t fall for the myths.

“The shot can give you the flu”.
 False. Flu vaccines are made from killed influenza viruses. These cannot give you the flu.

“Even if I get a flu shot, I can still get the flu.”
 Maybe. This can happen, but the flu shot usually protects most people. Other viruses also circulate during the flu season and can cause illnesses that feel like the flu. The flu shot will not protect you against those other viruses.

“The vaccine isn’t 100% effective, so I’m better off getting the flu.”
 False. No vaccine is 100% effective. However, if you get a flu shot but still get the flu, you are likely to be less sick than you would have been without the protection.

“The side effects are worse than the flu.”
 False. The worse side effect you’re likely to get is a sore arm.

“Not everyone can take the flu shot.”
 True. People who are allergic to eggs (used in making the vaccine), currently have a severe acute illness, or have had a severe reaction to the flu vaccine in the past, might not be able to get this protection.

“Only the very old and sick need the flu shot.”
 False. Even if you are in good health you can get the flu shot. If you are 65 years old or older, have a chronic (on-going) or long-term health condition, or are in the 2nd or 3rd trimester of pregnancy, you have a greater risk of complications if you get the flu.

“I don’t have to get the flu shot by December.”
 True. The flu shot can be given before or during the flu season. You should let those who need the protection the most have the first shots. An individual 65 years old or older, with chronic (on-going) or long-term health conditions, and health care workers also need the flu shot.



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