Top 5 Flu Shot Myths We Hear
Every year, we encourage our patients to get the flu shot. Chances are, you’ve heard a few arguments or stories cautioning you to avoid it, “if you don’t need it.” We’re here to debunk the myths and provide responses to some of the most popular arguments against it. Here are the Top 5 Myths we hear about the flu shot.
- “I get sick when I get the flu shot.” – It’s important to know that you cannot get the flu from the flu vaccine. While some patients may experience cold-like symptoms as a result of the shot, they are generally mild and self-resolving. Having the sniffles or a mild sore throat is a low-risk alternative to avoiding potential complications from the flu.
- “I’m healthy, I don’t need the flu shot” – Even healthy, young adults can be sidelined by the flu for a week, if not longer. Not only that, but you are contagious with the flu before and after you start showing symptoms. If you haven’t yet, watch this great video we shared by NPR and Skunk Bear, How Long Are You Contagious With the Flu. When you get the flu, you risk passing it on to those at high risk, like children under 12 and adults 65 and older. By getting your flu shot, you reduce your chances of getting the flu by 40-60 percent! Help protect your loved ones, your co-workers, your neighbors, and yourself by getting your flu shot.
- “I got the flu shot and I still got the flu.”– The flu shot is meant to protect you from the viruses that research indicates will be most common during the flu season. While this helps significantly reduce your chances of getting the flu, the flu shot also helps reduce symptoms in case you do get the flu.
- “The flu isn’t that bad. I can tough it out.” Symptoms and complications from the flu can exacerbate a patient’s pre-existing health conditions, can lead to pneumonia if left untreated, and can be life-threatening.
- “It takes too long, I don’t have time.” – With our fast and easy online appointment booking, you can schedule your flu shot visit in minutes. The flu shot is free for patients with insurance. For those patients without insurance, we offer self-pay for the flu shot for $30. The CDC recommends that people get a flu vaccine by the end of October. So, what are you waiting for?
Still not convinced? Check out this great video Do You REALLY Need A Flu Shot? for even more reasons on why you should get your flu shot. Book An Appointment today and help keep yourself and those around you happy and healthy.