Q: Will the flu shot give me the flu?
A: No, the flu shot is not a living virus, so you cannot get the flu from
it. It may cause symptoms such as drowsiness, headache, fatigue, sore
throat, soreness at the injection site and/or aches lasting one or two
days. These symptoms are reactions to the vaccine, not an infection. Occasionally,
people may get sick around the same time as their flu shot and may mistake
that as being caused by the vaccine.
Q: How do I know if I should get the flu shot?
A. Everybody should get the flu shot unless told otherwise by their primary
care provider. The flu shot is important because it promotes something
called "herd immunity," This means that everyone who can be
vaccinated should be vaccinated to help protect those who are unable to
get the vaccine. This prevents the spread of illnesses and helps protect
infants, elderly and the immune-compromised (like patients with diabetes,
cancer or HIV ). When we all get flu shots, it protects those of us who
would be most hurt by the flu. Doing your part is important for your sake,
as well as the sake of your family and others with whom you may come in contact.
Andrew Mossman, FNP-C
CaroMont Urgent Care
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