7 myths about the flu, debunked
Health experts agree: the single best way to protect against the flu is to get vaccinated each
year. But many people don’t, citing reasons that just aren’t backed up by the evidence. Here’s
the truth behind some of the most common myths about the flu and flu vaccines:
1.
You can catch the flu from cold weather. You can only
get the flu if you catch the flu virus. The virus is often
spread through droplets in the air when a person with the
flu sneezes, coughs, or talks. Going out in cold weather
without a coat or with wet hair can’t give you the flu.
2.
I can avoid catching the flu simply by avoiding people
with symptoms. Actually, you can catch the flu from
someone who is infected before they appear sick. Also,
some people can be infected but have no symptoms, yet
still spread the virus to others.
3.
The flu vaccine can give you the flu. The viruses in the flu
shot are killed (inactivated), so you cannot get the flu from
a flu shot. Some minor side effects that may occur are
soreness, redness, or swelling where the shot was given;
fever (low grade); and aches. But they are not the flu.
4. Getting the flu is better than getting the vaccine for building immunity. It’s true that getting the flu may help develop
immunity, but it’s a very risky (and miserable) way to build your natural defenses. Remember that the flu can be serious,
particularly among the very young, old, or ill. Serious consequences can include hospitalization and death, even among
healthy people. Vaccination is the safer choice.
5. I never get the flu, so I don’t need the vaccine. Just because you don’t have symptoms doesn’t mean you’re not carrying
the flu virus. And if you’re carrying the virus, you can still give it to others. So if not for yourself, get vaccinated for the ones
you love.
6. It’s too late to get vaccinated. Flu season can run from October to March and beyond, peaking from December to
February. Because the vaccine takes about two weeks to build up your body’s flu-fighting power, it’s best to get the
vaccine early. However, as long as flu viruses are circulating, vaccination can help prevent flu, even in January or later.
7.
It’s best to delay getting vaccinated until just before flu season peaks. Protection from the vaccine varies from person
to person, but studies suggest that in general, immunity lasts through a full flu season for most people.
What’s the takeaway?
Flu shots can help keep you and your family healthy through flu season. Everyone 6 months and older should get
vaccinated. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about it. To find a vaccine center near you, visit the federal Flu Vaccine Finder
at www.cdc.gov/flu/index.htm.
Are you or a family member experiencing flu-like symptoms? Ask your doctor about testing that can tell whether it’s the
flu or another potentially serious infection called respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
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