5 Myths About The Flu Vaccine, Debunked

Influenza, commonly known as the flu, infects millions of people every year. It can cause mild to severe illness, with symptoms lasting from a few days to several weeks. Complications from the flu, particularly for those who are considered higher risk, can lead to hospitalization and even death.

Your best defense against the flu? Getting the influenza vaccine every year, ideally in September or October. If you’re not quite sure how the vaccine works or how to separate fiction from fact, you’re not alone. Fortunately, Banner Health is here to debunk five common myths about the flu vaccine.

If you have a medical emergency, please call 911.

Flu Vaccine Myth #1. You’ll Get The Flu From A Flu Shot.

Fact: Contrary to popular belief, the flu shot contains an inactive virus incapable of transmitting illness. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it takes about two weeks for your body to produce enough antibodies for protection. After that time, you can still catch the flu in addition to other viruses, but the risk is much lower, and the severity of the virus would likely be much less. Get your flu shot early when transmission rates are low so your body will be fully prepared to keep you healthy.

Flu Vaccine Myth #2. Only Immunocompromised People Need A Flu Shot.

Fact: While the CDC stresses the importance of the flu shot for immunocompromised individuals, everyone ages 6 months and above is highly encouraged to get vaccinated. The flu affects all people differently and can lead to serious health complications even in healthy individuals. By getting the flu shot, you are also protecting those around you who are more vulnerable and may not be able to get the vaccine themselves.

Flu Vaccine Myth #3. Last Year’s Flu Vaccine Still Provides You With Protection.

Fact: According to Banner Health, the effectiveness of your flu shot will decrease over time, so getting the shot annually will ensure your body can provide the best protection possible. When you get your flu shot this year, set an annual reminder on your phone or digital calendar to make your appointment early in the season so you are protected during its peak.

Flu Vaccine Myth #4. A Flu Shot Is A Guarantee You Won’t Catch The Flu.

Fact: Per the CDC, an annual flu vaccine provides defense against four different strains of the virus. Every year, researchers determine which strains of the flu will be the most active in the upcoming flu season, and the vaccine is redesigned accordingly to provide you with more nuanced protection. This is a key factor in why annual flu shots are necessary. Your body needs to produce antibodies with the most up-to-date information on the viruses they may encounter. However, should you be exposed to a strain of the virus that was not included in the vaccine, you could still contract the virus.

Flu Vaccine Myth #5. Individuals With An Egg Allergy Cannot Get The Flu Vaccine.

Fact: While there have been concerns regarding those with an egg allergy and most FDA-approved flu vaccines are developed with egg-based technology, reactions are rare. Unless you have a serious allergy to chicken eggs, you can still get the flu shot. Additionally, there are now two types of egg-free vaccines: Recombinant vaccine (Flublok Quadrivalent) and cell-based vaccine (Flucelvax Quadrivalent). If you have an egg allergy and are concerned about getting the flu vaccine, ask your provider which vaccine they recommend.

More Flu Vaccine Facts

The CDC recommends that everyone above the age of 6 months should get a flu shot to protect themselves from the illness and keep those around them safe, including individuals who are pregnant. Children under the age of five are at high risk for serious health complications from the flu and should be vaccinated.

For people 65 and over, the CDC preferentially recommends three vaccines: the Fluzone High-Dose Quadrivalent vaccine, Flublok Quadrivalent recombinant flu vaccine and Fluad Quadrivalent adjuvanted flu vaccine. This recommendation is based on a review of studies which suggests that in this age group, these vaccines are potentially more effective than standard dose unadjuvanted flu vaccines.

There are two main types of flu vaccine: the “flu shot,” which is an inactivated vaccine administered in the arm of an individual; and the nasal-spray flu vaccine, which consists of live but weakened flu viruses (this does not cause the flu). According to the CDC, the nasal spray vaccine is approved for people aged 2 to 49. The nasal spray vaccine is not recommended for those who are pregnant, have weakened immune systems or have recently taken influenza antiviral drugs.

Where To Get A Flu Shot

Book your flu shot today at a Banner Urgent Care or Banner Health Clinic. Booking an appointment is quick and easy through their online forms with plenty of locations around the state to choose from. Plan ahead and be prepared this flu season.

Other Ways To Stay Healthy Throughout Flu Season

In addition to getting the flu vaccine, stay healthy throughout the flu season by doing the following:

• Avoiding close contact with sick individuals.
• Staying home when you’re feeling sick.
• Cleaning your hands often and thoroughly.
• Avoiding touching your face, eyes, nose or mouth.
• Covering your mouth when you cough or sneeze to avoid spreading germs to others.

If, despite getting your shot, you still catch the flu this season, visit your health care provider to determine whether you should treat it with over-the-counter medication or prescription medication. The CDC recommends anyone at a higher risk for health complications, such as people with asthma, diabetes or heart disease, should closely monitor symptoms and seek a prescription for an antiviral drug specifically designed to fight the flu and prevent the condition from worsening. Visit your local Banner Urgent Care or Banner Health Clinic if you need additional support and to inquire about the antiviral flu drug.

Learn More About Fighting The Flu From Banner Health