ching the flu can be stressful. If you’ve ever had it, you know how uncomfortable or downright miserable it can be. Still, many people don’t prioritize getting a flu shot. Some people question the vaccine’s effectiveness, while others may think it’s simply not worth the time and energy.
There’s no shortage of misinformation when it comes to the flu vaccine, so we’ve compiled a list of myths to help you stay informed and understand the importance of being a flu fighter and getting vaccinated.
Myth: The flu vaccine will give you the flu
Fact: The flu shot is made from an inactive virus or viral proteins that cannot transmit infection, so it is impossible to catch influenza from the vaccine. If someone gets sick after receiving a flu shot, that person may have caught the common cold or developed a pneumonia or sinus infection. But the flu shot does not cause these illnesses.
It’s also important to note that it is still possible to catch the flu after receiving a flu shot. This is because it takes a week or two for the vaccine to protect your immune system. In addition, the vaccine protects against multiple strains of the flu. That’s why it’s important to continue washing your hands and wearing a mask around anyone who may be sick.
Myth: I got a flu shot but then I still got the flu, so the vaccine doesn’t work
Fact: Several flu viruses are always circulating, but the yearly vaccine is specific to multiple strains. That’s why some people may still get the flu despite being vaccinated. Getting a flu shot protects you from the flu and helps prevent the virus from spreading. By getting your yearly flu shot, you can help protect yourself and others, including people with weakened immune systems.
Myth: I already got the flu this season, so I don’t need the vaccine
Fact: While you may have already caught the flu this season, you don’t have to suffer more. If you aren’t vaccinated, there’s a chance you could catch a different strain of the flu. Getting a flu shot helps protect you against multiple strains – not just one.
Myth: Influenza isn’t a serious illness, so I don’t need the vaccine
Fact: The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that between 12,000 and 52,000 people die from the flu every year, depending on the severity of the strain.
The following groups may be immunocompromised and could be at an increased risk of catching the flu and experiencing serious complications or hospitalization:
- Adults aged 65 and older
- Children younger than 2 years old
- People with asthma or chronic lung diseases
- People with blood, endocrine, kidney, liver or metabolic disorders
- Pregnant people and those who have recently given birth
Myth: Healthy people don’t need flu shots
Fact: While it’s particularly important for immunocompromised people to get a flu shot, healthy people can also benefit from receiving the vaccine. The CDC recommends yearly vaccination for anyone above 6 months of age.
Myth: Getting a flu shot is all you need to protect yourself against the flu
Fact: While being vaccinated is a great way to stay protected from the flu, there are other steps you can take to avoid catching or spreading it. This includes:
- Minimize exposure – Avoid contact with people who have the flu. If flu activity is high in your area, avoid large crowds in enclosed spaces.
- Practice good hygiene – Wash your hands, cover your coughs and sanitize surfaces. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth as this is how germs easily enter your body.
- Boost your immune system – Eat a nutrient-rich, balanced diet, stay properly hydrated and get enough sleep and exercise. Together, these steps will help strengthen your immune system.
Myth: You don’t need a flu shot every single year
Fact: The influenza virus mutates every year, and vaccines are updated to protect against whichever strains are most likely to cause an outbreak. Getting vaccinated every year helps ensure you are immune to whichever strains are most likely to cause an outbreak.
Myth: I’m pregnant so I shouldn’t get the flu vaccine
Fact: Pregnant people are especially prone to catching the flu, as their immune systems become weakened during pregnancy. The flu vaccine is safe for pregnant people and their baby at any stage of pregnancy.
Myth: If you have an egg allergy, you can’t get the flu shot
Fact: The influenza vaccine contains a small amount of egg protein, which may concern people with egg allergies. However, the CDC has stated that the flu vaccine is safe for all individuals, including those with egg allergies, no matter how severe their allergy may be.
Stay healthy this flu season
Staying informed is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself and those around you from catching the flu. Yearly flu vaccination is a simple, science‑backed step you can take toward staying healthy and preventing the spread of illness – especially to those who are most vulnerable. Remember to practice good hygiene, support your immune system through a healthy diet and exercise, and schedule a flu shot with your primary care provider or at your local pharmacy.