While flu season may well have begun, it is never too late to get vaccinated against the influenza
virus! If you've been putting off getting the flu shot for whatever reason, it may be due to some
widespread misconceptions about the vaccine. If you have any concerns about possible issues or
adverse effects, we have the information you need! The following are four 4 Common Flu Vaccine
Myths about the flu shot that have been disproved:
1. The Flu Vaccine May Cause You to Contract the Flu
Perhaps you've heard someone say that they contracted the flu after receiving the flu vaccine.
However, the reality is that the viruses contained in the flu shot are dormant and therefore non-
infectious. The only side effects that may occur following the flu shot are a minor fever or fatigue, as
well as possible swelling or soreness where the shot was administered. These are not major
problems and usually resolve on their own. If you experience a serious side effect, such as difficulty
breathing or a rapid heartbeat, you should immediately call your doctor.
2. Annual Flu Vaccination Is Not Required
Another widespread misconception about the flu shot is that it is not necessary to receive it every
year. Due to the fact that vaccination-induced immunity diminishes over time, it is critical to receive an
annual flu vaccine for optimal protection. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) did
recommend that just about everyone aged six months and older receive the flu vaccine each year.
This is true even if the viruses that are shielded have not changed from the previous season.
3. Flu Vaccines Are Ineffective
Some people believe that flu shots are ineffective and that receiving the vaccine is not worth the time
or effort. The CDC conducts annual research to determine the effectiveness of each season
influenza vaccine in protecting individuals against the influenza virus. Recent studies indicate that the
flu vaccine significantly reduces the risk of contracting the flu by between 40% and 60%. Although the
vaccines effectiveness varies by age, receiving the vaccine is always preferable to not receiving it.
4. The Flu Shot Is Too Late in the Season
While you may simply shrug and assume that it is too late to bother after the first few weeks or even
months of influenza season have passed, the reality is that the flu vaccine remains effective as long
as viruses are still present. This could be as late as April or May! While it is recommended to receive
the vaccine by the end of October, it is never too late. Simply keep in mind that the longer you wait,
the more likely to be exposed you become to the flu.
We hope that these 4 Common Flu Vaccine Myths Debunked make you get your vaccine and remain protected.
against the influenza virus!
1. The Flu Vaccine May Cause You to Contract the Flu
Perhaps you've heard someone say that they contracted the flu after receiving the flu vaccine.
However, the reality is that the viruses contained in the flu shot are dormant and therefore non-
infectious. The only side effects that may occur following the flu shot are a minor fever or fatigue, as
well as possible swelling or soreness where the shot was administered. These are not major
problems and usually resolve on their own. If you experience a serious side effect, such as difficulty
breathing or a rapid heartbeat, you should immediately call your doctor.
2. Annual Flu Vaccination Is Not Required
Another widespread misconception about the flu shot is that it is not necessary to receive it every
year. Due to the fact that vaccination-induced immunity diminishes over time, it is critical to receive an
annual flu vaccine for optimal protection. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) did
recommend that just about everyone aged six months and older receive the flu vaccine each year.
This is true even if the viruses that are shielded have not changed from the previous season.
3. Flu Vaccines Are Ineffective
Some people believe that flu shots are ineffective and that receiving the vaccine is not worth the time
or effort. The CDC conducts annual research to determine the effectiveness of each season
influenza vaccine in protecting individuals against the influenza virus. Recent studies indicate that the
flu vaccine significantly reduces the risk of contracting the flu by between 40% and 60%. Although the
vaccines effectiveness varies by age, receiving the vaccine is always preferable to not receiving it.
4. The Flu Shot Is Too Late in the Season
While you may simply shrug and assume that it is too late to bother after the first few weeks or even
months of influenza season have passed, the reality is that the flu vaccine remains effective as long
as viruses are still present. This could be as late as April or May! While it is recommended to receive
the vaccine by the end of October, it is never too late. Simply keep in mind that the longer you wait,
the more likely to be exposed you become to the flu.
related read: HERE'S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT COVID BOOSTER SHOTS
We hope that these 4 Common Flu Vaccine Myths Debunked make you get your vaccine and remain protected.
against the influenza virus!
