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There are many myths and misconceptions about the flu vaccine that help convince people to skip their shot. Let’s debunk some of those now.
It’s too late to get vaccinated in December. Getting vaccinated later in the season (December -March) can still protect you because flu season can last until May.
The shots don’t really work. The vaccine is typically 50-60% effective, sparing millions of Americans from catching the flu, and minimizing the effects of the virus on those who do.
I don’t need a shot; I got one last year. Flu viruses change constantly and so last year’s shot does not adequately protect against this year’s virus. Plus, immune protection declines over time, so annual vaccination is needed for the best protection.
I’m better off taking my chances. Getting the flu also means becoming a carrier who can transmit the flu to loved ones and others. Many flu patients are contagious BEFORE they realize they are ill.
The flu vaccine is only necessary for the old and very young. The vaccine is for anyone who does not want to get ill with the flu. The Centers for Disease Control recommend the flu vaccine for everyone age 6 months and older.
I could get the flu from the flu shot. A flu shot can not give you the flu. The inactivated strains of the flu in the shot shave been rendered biologically incapable of transmitting the flu.
Only unhealthy people need the flu vaccine. Influenza, a contagious disease, can lead to serious disease, including pneumonia. According to the CDC, since 2012, flu deaths in the US have ranged from 12,000 to 56,000 per season. And flu symptoms (cough, fever, headache, muscle aches, fatigue and upper respiratory congestion) can disrupt work, school and social life and last for up to two weeks.
It’s not safe to get a flu shot while I’m pregnant. Pregnant women are ESPECIALLY SUSCEPTIBLE to getting the flu. The CDC recommends pregnant women get vaccinated during any trimester to protect themselves and their newborn babies for up to six months.