Flu and cold season is fast approaching. This cloaks with it an extremely contagious virus that could lead to severe illness for humans and that can even lead to death. Even if this is the time of year that people should get their flu shots, many still believe a lot of common myths about the vaccine. A doctor says in an interview that the vaccine doesn't just protect you — it benefits others around you, too.
Facts Regarding Flu Vaccines
Influenza vaccines, also known as flu shots, are vaccines that protect against influenza. A new version of the vaccine is developed twice a year as the influenza virus rapidly changes. While their effectiveness varies from year to year, most provide modest to high protection against influenza. They decrease the number of missed days of work by a half day on average.
According To CDC, different flu shots are approved for people of any ages, but there are flu shots that are approved for use in people as young as 6 months of age and up. Pregnant women and people with chronic health conditions are approved to have flu shots. Therefore, all persons aged 6 months and older are recommended for annual vaccination, with rare exception.
Myths About Flu Vaccines That People Still Believe In
"The flu shot can help protect you and your loved ones from getting the flu and reduce complications that can result in hospitalization and deaths," says public health physician Dr. Bryna Warshawsky. "It is not possible for the flu shot to give you the flu. Sometimes you can coincidentally catch another virus that is circulating around the time you get your vaccine, she says.
According to TMJ4, here are the four big flu shot myths:
- Flu shots can actually cause people to get the flu and get sick.
- Flu shots don’t work.
- 'I got a flu shot last year and therefore don’t need one this year.'
- 'I didn’t get my shot early and now that the season is almost over, I don’t need it.'
Being able to identify the facts from what are just myths in relation with flu vaccines is very important to protect you from catching virus and also, protecting other person to catch it somehow. Scheduling a time to come in and get a flu shot is an easy process for everyone. If however, you do get the flu, its best to stay home from work or school to avoid passing it on to others.
