Flu Vaccine Myths

Myth: You can catch the flu from the vaccine.
Truth: The flu vaccine contains an inactivated virus that cannot give you the flu. It takes up to two weeks to get protection from the vaccine.

Myth: You don’t need to get a flu shot every year.
Truth: The flu virus changes (mutates) each year. Getting vaccinated every year protects you from the strains most likely to cause an outbreak.

Myth: The flu vaccine causes severe sides effects.
Truth: The flu vaccine is proven to be safe. Severe side effects are extremely rare. Mild feelings of achiness or low fever typically last 1–2 days.

Myth: Pregnant women shouldn’t get the flu vaccine.
Truth: The flu vaccine is safe at any stage of pregnancy and helps protect a woman’s immune system when it may be weaker.

Myth: I still got the flu, which means the vaccine doesn’t work.
Truth: The flu vaccine significantly reduces your risk of catching the flue, and your risk of severe illness and hospitalization.

Myth: The flu isn’t serious, so I don’t need the vaccine.
Truth: As many as 650,000 people die each year from the flu. Symptoms may include fever, cough, aches, fatigue and runny nose.

Anyone can get the flu but people with weaker immune systems have the highest risk, including potential complications. Plenty of rest, fluids and antiviral medications can help with flu recovery.

Talk to your doctor or visit UHhospitals.org/Flu.