Every year, questions about the flu shot spread as fast as the flu itself, often fueled by myths and misunderstandings. These false ideas about the vaccine’s safety and effectiveness can make people hesitate to get it.
In reality, the flu shot is a well-studied and reliable way to protect yourself and others from the flu. Clearing up these myths with facts helps you make smart choices for your health and stay prepared during flu season.
Myth 1: “The flu shot gives you the flu”
The flu shot does not cause influenza because it contains inactivated viruses that cannot infect your body.
“After receiving the vaccine, some individuals may experience mild symptoms like muscle aches or a low-grade fever,” says Harsimran Singh, DO, a primary care doctor at Mount Nittany Health, “but these are simply signs that the immune system is responding to the vaccine and building protection.”
It’s also worth noting that flu symptoms experienced shortly after vaccination are likely due to exposure to the virus prior to the vaccine taking effect, which typically requires about two weeks.
Myth 2: “Healthy people don’t need the flu shot”
Even individuals who are healthy can experience severe illness from influenza, including complications like pneumonia. More importantly, they can unknowingly spread the virus to those at higher risk, such as newborns, older adults and people with weakened immune systems.
Vaccination helps limit the spread of influenza in the community, reducing potential outbreaks and protecting vulnerable populations. Beyond personal health, getting vaccinated also lowers the overall burden on healthcare systems by preventing avoidable medical visits and hospitalizations.
Myth 3: “You don’t need a flu shot every year”
Skipping your annual flu shot could leave you susceptible to new and potentially more severe strains. Additionally, the effectiveness of the vaccine from the previous year may have faded, leaving you more vulnerable to infection.
“Annual flu vaccination ensures your immune system stays prepared for the latest versions of the virus,” says Dr. Singh.
Myth 4: “Children don’t need the flu shot”
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone aged 6 months and older receive an annual flu shot. Children are among the groups most vulnerable to the flu, with higher risks of complications such as pneumonia, sinus infections and even severe conditions like brain inflammation.
“Beyond protecting a child’s individual health, vaccinations help reduce the spread of the flu in schools, daycare centers and even within households,” says Lilian McKinley, MD, a pediatric hospitalist with Mount Nittany Health. “Children often come into close contact with others and may not yet have strong habits around handwashing and covering coughs, which can lead to faster transmission of the virus.”
Children’s’ immune systems aren’t great at fighting viruses, so the flu can hit them hard. It can lead to serious problems, especially for kids under 5 or those with health issues like asthma or diabetes.
The real benefits of the flu shot
The flu shot is a simple and effective way to safeguard both individual and public health.
“Misinformation about the flu shot often arises from misunderstanding how vaccines work and the effects they have on the body,” says Dr. McKinley. “But, truthfully, widespread vaccination contributes to building a healthier community by limiting outbreaks and protecting those who may not be able to get vaccinated due to medical reasons.”
By choosing to get your flu vaccine, you not only protect yourself but also help create a safer environment for everyone around you. Taking a proactive approach to flu prevention ensures better outcomes for individuals and the community as a whole.
Flu
Discover more about Flu, including locations and providers, at Mount Nittany Health