The flu shot has been around for over 50 years providing people with adequate protection from the influenza virus and from serious illness. Because of that, there are certainly common misconceptions out there regarding the shot and what it can do for you.

We want to set the record straight so that you can protect yourself and your family from the flu this year! Read on to learn the facts about the flu shot from our team at AFC Urgent Care Louisville.

Do Healthy People Have to Get the Flu Shot?

Of course! Just because you are considered healthy or don’t get sick very often, it doesn’t mean that you are immune to serious illness. You never know how your body will react to an illness, and you could very well be surprised by a severe infection this year.

Getting the flu shot also protects the vulnerable people in your life during this time. Infants under 6 months are not eligible for the shot, but they can certainly still get the flu. Same is true for people who are allergic to the ingredients in the shot. Getting vaccinated can help keep you from spreading the virus to them.

Potential Complications Due to the Flu

• Pneumonia
• Dehydration
• Ear or sinus infections
• Inflammation of the heart (myocarditis)
• Multi-organ failure

Can the Flu Vaccine Give You the Flu?

No! This is probably the most common myth amongst the general population. The virus that is in the flu shot is deactivated, meaning that it cannot give you the flu. While it cannot give you influenza, it is common to feel run down or achy for a day or so after the shot. This is because your body is doing its job and forming an immune response to the shot. It is normal, and it means the shot is working!

There is also a small window of time (two weeks) from when you get vaccinated to when it becomes effective. You could contract the flu during this time, but you would have gotten sick anyway in these cases.

Common Symptoms of the Flu

• Fever or chills
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Body aches
  

It’s not too late to get your flu shot this year! Come see us today at AFC Urgent Care Louisville.