Flu season is back yet again and the seasonal vaccine should be one of your top healthcare priorities. Many facts about the flu are commonly misunderstood, leading to unsafe health practices. Protect your health this season by getting the vaccine and don’t fall for these common myths.

Myth 1. The Flu Vaccine Can Give the Flu.

A common stance against the flu vaccine is the argument that it can give patients the flu. Conversely, the virus in the vaccine is inactivated and can not give you influenza. Patients may experience aches or a slight fever afterward, but this is only the immune system’s normal reaction, which typically lasts two days or less.

Myth 2. Only Unhealthy People Need the Vaccine.

Healthy or not, everyone 6 months or older should receive the vaccine The flu can affect individuals of any age group or health status and even individuals who don’t experience symptoms can still spread the virus to others who are especially vulnerable.

Myth 3. A Flu Shot Isn’t Necessary Each Year.

While the flu shot does provide immunity to the influenza virus, this protection declines over time, and receiving the shot from a medical professional annually is the best way to stay safe. According to the CDC, everyone 6 months or older should receive the vaccine every year. It’s also important to remember that the flu virus can mutate each year, making the previous year’s shot ineffective.

Myth 4. The Flu Vaccine Has Serious Side Effects.

Some individuals believe that the vaccine can cause more serious or lasting side effects. Most individuals don’t experience serious side effects from flu vaccines and these vaccines are given to millions of individuals around the United States each year with no lasting issues. Medical Professionals can also address any side effects you’re concerned about.

Myth 5. Pregnant Women Can Not Get the Vaccine.

It’s easy to assume that pregnant women are especially vulnerable to the vaccine due to their lower immune system, but this is exactly why doctors recommend that they receive the vaccine. Since the vaccine does not give the flu, the vaccine is safe for them to get at any stage of their pregnancy. It also protects the baby for months after being delivered.

Take special care in protecting yourself from seasonal illnesses, including the flu. Contact us today to receive your vaccine or any other healthcare services you may need.