Tips
for Answering Questions about the Flu Vaccine
Flu shot season has arrived. Unfortunately,
less than 50% of adults typically receive a flu shot each year. Lack of
knowledge may play a role in this low flu vaccination rate. Below is an
FAQ from the CDC regarding the flu vaccine.
·
What is the flu? Influenza (or the flu) is a contagious viral infection
that attacks your respiratory system — your nose, throat and lungs and can lead to serious
illness, including pneumonia. Influenza is not the same as the stomach
"flu" viruses that cause diarrhea and vomiting.
·
Can I get the flu
from the flu shot? No, you cannot get the flu from the flu shot. Flu vaccines are
either ‘inactivated’ and are therefore not infectious or contain no flu vaccine
viruses at all. Although the nasal spray flu vaccine does contain live
viruses, they are weakened and cannot cause the flu.
·
I don’t
like shots, are there other ways to get vaccinated? Yes, for most healthy,
non-pregnant people ages 2 through 49 years old, the nasal spray flu vaccine is
a great option. Also, there is an intradermal shot that uses a much smaller
needle than the regular flu shot.
·
What are the benefits
of the flu vaccine? The best way to reduce the chances of getting the seasonal flu and spreading
it to others is to get a flu shot or the nasal-spray flu vaccine. These
antibodies provide protection against infection with the viruses that are in
the vaccine.
·
Who should get the
flu shot? Everyone
who is at least 6 months and older should get a flu vaccine this
season. It is especially important for certain people to get a flu vaccine
including:
−
People with certain
medical conditions including asthma, diabetes, and chronic lung disease.
−
Pregnant women.
−
People younger than 5
(especially younger than 2) and people 65 years and older.
·
How does the flu shot
work? The
seasonal flu vaccine protects against the influenza viruses that research
indicates will be most common during the upcoming season.
·
When should I
get vaccinated? Ideally
by October. However, as long as flu viruses are circulating, vaccination
should continue to be offered throughout flu season. It is best to get
vaccinated early since it takes about two weeks after vaccination for
antibodies to develop that protect against influenza.
·
Do I need a flu
vaccine every year? Yes, for two reasons. First, the body’s immune response from
vaccination declines over time, so an annual vaccine is needed for optimal
protection. Second, the flu viruses constantly change and the formulation
is reviewed each year.
Click here to view the
CDC’s No More Excuses: You Need a Flu Vaccine flyer.
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