Dispelling flu shot myths

During flu season, many myths spread about the flu shot. To help you understand the facts about the flu here are the top 5 flu shot myths.

Myth 1: You can get the flu from the flu shot.

Fact: The flu shot cannot give you the flu because the virus is not alive. Some people may experience side effects, such as mild soreness or muscle ache, which can be confused with symptoms of the flu. Don’t worry, you’re not sick, it’s just your body reacting to the shot.

Myth 2: Waiting until winter will protect me longer.

Fact: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends getting your flu shot by the end of October, if possible. The flu shot takes 2 weeks to protect you so the sooner the better. Even if you don’t get your shot early, it’s never too late for your flu shot.

Myth 3: The flu shot doesn’t work anyway.

Fact: The flu shot does work. Experts review which strains of the flu are in the other areas of the world to predict which will hit the United States. It can help prevent medical problems, decrease the time and how severe the illness is.

Myth 4: I never get the flu, so I don’t need the vaccine

Fact: Avoiding the flu in the past does not mean you will not get the flu in the future. Every year a new flu season puts you at risk. You can also have the flu and give it to others by not getting the vaccine.

Myth 5: I got a flu shot last year, so I don’t need one this year.

Fact: This is false. Unlike some vaccines, the flu shot must be given every year to be effective.

The flu shot is by far the best way to protect against yourself from the flu. Stop the flu before it gets to you. Get your flu shot today! Flu shots are available at no cost to you at drive-through sites located at Ellis Davis Field House and Dallas Community College- Eastfield Campus. For more information on the flu and upcoming flu drives, visit www.parklandhospital.com/flu.