Flu season is here but it’s not too late to get your flu shot. Don’t let common misconceptions about the flu shot stop you from protecting yourself this flu season!

Here are the FACTS about the Flu Shot:

The flu vaccine will NOT give you the flu.
The vaccine is actually an inactive form of the virus and therefore cannot transmit the flu.

You need to get a flu shot every year.
The virus mutates almost every year, so the previous year’s vaccine may not protect you from this year’s flu.

Even if you are healthy now, you still need to get the flu shot.
The flu vaccine will help protect you from certain strains of the flu, and it will also help protect others around you from getting sick.

Allergic reactions to the flu shot are VERY rare.
These sorts of reactions are super rare. If a person has an allergic reaction it is usually within minutes to a few hours after receiving it, and there is treatment available.

Getting the flu is NOT better than having a flu shot.
The flu is a serious illness, especially for children and young adults who have chronic health problems such as asthma, diabetes or heart problems. Getting vaccinated is a safer choice than risking illness to obtain immune protection.

If you haven’t received the flu vaccine yet, make an appointment with your primary care provider. It’s your best protection! There are other ways you can protect yourself from getting sick. Wash your hands with soap and water. Make sure to cover coughs and sneezes. Avoid touching your nose and mouth and avoid contact with people who are sick.

If you have flu-like symptoms stay home from school and call your doctor. Symptoms may include: a temperature of 100oF or higher, cough or sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, headache and/or body aches, chills, and fatigue. Not everyone who has the flu has a termperature. If your symptoms are not improving, make an appointment with your health care provider.