The Vaccine Will Not Give You The Flu (FACT)
One of the most common misconceptions about the flu vaccine is that it causes the recipient to get the flu. Side effects are common with the vaccination, but these symptoms are mild compared to the fully developed flu.
Getting The Flu Is More Effective Than Getting The Shot (MYTH)
Flu vaccination is the most effective way to keep yourself and others around you safe. In 2019-2020 the flu vaccination prevented an estimated 7.5 million influenza illnesses. The flu can cause very serious complications in some circumstances, so getting the vaccine can significantly decrease the severity if someone happens to still contract the virus.
The Vaccine Can Protect Many People (FACT)
While the flu shot is not 100% effective, it provides protection and lowers your chances of getting sick. And if you do get sick, the vaccine lessens the severity of your symptoms. People that may not know they have the flu, can pass it on to others. The flu can be fatal to those at risk – such as young children, pregnant women or people with cancer.
The Vaccine Is All You Need To Protect Yourself (MYTH)
The vaccine is not the only way to protect yourself or loved ones from the flu. Washing your hands regularly, using hand sanitizer and taking antiviral medications if you were exposed can also help protect you. Another important step you can take is if someone you know has flu-like symptoms, try to avoid seeing that person until they feel better.
The Vaccine Fights Multiple Strains (FACT)
A lot of research is done to determine the different strains most likely to appear each flu season. There is a new vaccine developed every year because the predicted strains of the flu change annually. They are updated based on the strains that are making people sick, the extent to which those viruses are spreading, and how well the previous season’s vaccine protected against those viruses.
It Is Not Necessary To Get It Every Year (MYTH)
There is protection against different strains in each year’s flu shot, so it is very important to get it every year. It is also suggested to get the flu shot in early fall. Data suggests flu season starts just before Halloween and ends as Spring arrives.
The Shot Does Not Protect Against Common Colds or Stomach Illnesses (FACT)
It is a common misconception that the stomach flu is the same thing as influenza. That is incorrect, therefore the vaccine does not protect against the common cold or the stomach flu. It only helps fight off the viruses that cause influenza, which is much more severe than either of those two illnesses.
Like many vaccines and medications, there is so much information spreading around it can be hard to decipher between facts and myths. At Southwoods, we are committed to the health and safety of our community.
If you need a flu shot or think you may already have the flu, Southwoods Express Care is here to help. With convenient walk-in service, shorter wait times, and lower costs than an ER visit, Express Care is open 7 days a week in Boardman, Campbell and our newest location in Columbiana.