It’s August and Flu Season is Almost Here! What’s in Your Flu Kit?
A flu shot is the best way to avoid the flu. Many people ask, “Will I get sick from the flu shot?”
Will I get the flu from the flu shot?
Serious reactions to the flu shot are rare. The most common reaction in adults is soreness, redness or swelling at the spot where the shot was given. This usually lasts less than two days. This initial soreness is most likely the result of the body’s early immune response to a foreign substance entering the body. Less frequently people may experience a slight fever and aches. These symptoms begin after the shot and last 1 to 2 days.
Or others say, “I don’t want to get the flu shot because it will give me the flu!”
The flu shot might give me the flu! Right?
There are several reasons why someone might get a flu-like illness after vaccination. There are other viruses in the environment that produce flu-like symptoms, like a rhinovirus, which causes the common cold. The flu vaccine will only protect against flu virus not a cold virus.
It is also possible that before one gets a flu shot, he/she was exposed to the flu but did not yet have symptoms. Symptoms may not show up for 5 to 7 days after exposure. That’s why it is important to get your flu shot early.
The flu shot protects against many strains of flu but not all in a given year. That is why someone may get the flu even though they have had a flu shot.
An AW Health Care nurse will be able to answer any flu shot questions you have.
Flu Can Be Dangerous
The flu can make you sick for several days.
Influenza viruses cause the flu, a contagious respiratory illness. It causes mild to severe illness. Flu can result in hospitalization or death. Older people, children and others with an immune system deficiency are high risk for serious complications. Even if you are not high risk, get the flu shot anyway. You could pass the virus to someone and make that person very ill.
Get A Flu Shot Early
Get your flu shot early in the season.
The flu season is always unpredictable. But it generally starts in September and peaks during the months from October through February. One thing is sure. Protect yourself from the flu. Get your flu shot early. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends an annual influenza vaccination for everyone 6 months and older.
What’s In Your Flu Kit?
- Stay away from others who are sick.
- Wash hands often with soap
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
- Wash eating utensils and bedding thoroughly
- Clean surfaces at home like doorknobs and light switches.
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