Flu Vaccine Facts and Myths
“People can die from the flu.” - TRUEInfluenza (flu) is a highly infectious disease of the lungs, and it can lead to pneumonia. Each year about 114,000 people in the U.S. are hospitalized and about 36,000 people die because of the flu. Most who die are 65 years and older. But small children less than 2 years old are as likely as those over 65 to have to go to the hospital because of the flu.
“Even if I get flu vaccine, I can still get a mild case of the flu.” - TRUE
The vaccine usually protects most people from the flu. Sometimes a person whoreceives flu vaccine can get the flu but will be far less sick than without thevaccine. Flu vaccine will not protect you from other viruses that sometimes feellike the flu.
“The side effects are worse than the flu.” - FALSE
The worst side effect you’re likely to get with injectable vaccine is a sorearm. The nasal mist flu vaccine might cause nasal congestion, runny nose, sorethroat and cough. The risk of a rare allergic reaction is far less than the riskof severe complications from influenza.
“Not everyone can take flu vaccine.” - TRUE
You might not be able to get this protection if you are allergic to eggs (used in making the vaccine), are very ill with a high fever, or have had a severe reaction to the flu vaccine in the past.
“Only older people need flu vaccine.” - FALSE
Adults and children with conditions like asthma, diabetes, heart disease, and kidney disease need to get flu vaccine. People who are active and healthy can benefit from the protection the flu vaccine offers.
“You must get a flu vaccine before December.” - FALSE
Flu vaccine can be given before or during the flu season. While the best time to get flu vaccine is October or November, getting immunized in December or later can still protect you against the flu.