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Dispelling Common Flu Myths: Debunking Misconceptions About the Influenza Vaccine
Posted on October 7, 2024
It is well known within healthcare circles that in the battle against influenza, misinformation can be just as contagious as the virus itself. Families Fighting Flu is here to tackle some common myths and make sure you’ve got the truths you need to stay healthy and flu-free. Below, we address some of the most common misconceptions surrounding the flu vaccine.
Myth #1: The Flu Shot Can Give You the Flu
One of the most prevalent myths is that the flu shot itself causes the flu. This belief stems from a misunderstanding of the vaccine’s composition. The influenza vaccine contains either inactivated flu viruses or, in some cases, a recombinant flu vaccine containing no flu virus at all. While some individuals may experience mild side effects, such as soreness at the injection site, muscle aches, or low-grade fever, neither of these formulations can cause the flu.
Myth #2: You Don’t Need to Get a Flu Shot Every Year
If you’ve fared well in the past without a flu shot or got the flu even after receiving the shot you may be tempted to forgo it the next season. Especially if you mistakenly believe that immunity from previous vaccinations carries over from year to year. However, the influenza virus is notorious for its ability to mutate rapidly. The strains circulating each flu season can vary significantly and immunity wanes over time. For optimal protection, it is recommended to receive a flu shot every year.
Myth #3: The Flu Shot Isn’t Effective
Another common misconception is that the flu shot is not effective in preventing influenza. While it is true that the efficacy of the flu vaccine can vary from year to year, numerous studies have demonstrated the vaccine’s ability to reduce the severity and duration of flu symptoms. Even in seasons where the vaccine may be less effective against certain strains, partial protection can still make a significant difference in protecting you from severe flu complications, hospitalizations, and death.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that during 2019-2020, the last full flu season prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, flu vaccination prevented an estimated 7 million influenza illnesses, 3 million influenza-associated medical visits, 100,000 influenza-associated hospitalizations, and 7,000 influenza-associated deaths in the United States.
Myth #4: You Can’t Get a Flu Shot If You’re Allergic to Eggs
In the past, individuals with egg allergies were advised to avoid the flu shot due to the presence of egg proteins in some vaccine formulations. Many individuals with allergic reactions to eggs can safely receive the standard flu vaccine under the supervision of a healthcare provider. However, advancements in vaccine technology have led to the development of egg-free flu vaccines that are safe and effective alternatives for individuals with egg allergies. For more information on where to find a flu shot, including egg-free vaccines, visit the flu shot finder tool on Vaccines.gov or contact your healthcare provider.
Myth #5: The Flu Shot Contains a Live Virus
Some individuals express concerns that the flu shot is a live virus that will cause illness. In reality, the flu vaccine contains either inactivated flu viruses or proteins derived from the flu virus, neither of which can replicate or cause flu infection.
At Families Fighting Flu, we’re here to help you debunk myths that may keep you and your loved ones from annual flu vaccination. Addressing these misconceptions with accurate information empowers you to make informed decisions about your health and take proactive measures to battle the flu. If you haven’t already, schedule your flu shot today so that you can protect yourself, protect your loved ones, and so that we can end severe flu complications once and for all.
Learn More About Families Fighting Flu
Families Fighting Flu (FFF), a national, nonprofit advocacy organization dedicated to honoring loved ones who have suffered serious medical complications or died from influenza, commemorates 20 years of advocacy protecting children, families, and all communities from the flu. Our 20th anniversary is a testament to our dedication and enduring efforts to protect families. It is also a sobering reminder that we are not done yet.
In sharing personal stories, FFF strives to increase awareness about the seriousness of the flu, reduce the number of hospitalizations and deaths each year, drive up vaccination rates for everyone six months and older, and encourage symptomatic individuals to get tested and receive appropriate treatment. Learn more about our mission and resources here so that you can empower your family to stay healthy this flu season.
