Every year, millions of people get the flu shot to protect themselves and others from the influenza (flu) virus. Despite its widespread use, you still have questions about the flu shot. Below are some frequently asked questions I receive and the answers to help you make an informed decision around getting the yearly flu shot.
Q: What is the flu shot, and how does it work?
A: The flu shot, also known as the influenza vaccine, is a vaccine designed to protect against the flu virus. It contains inactivated (killed) viruses or proteins that mimic the flu virus, which stimulate your immune system to produce antibodies. These antibodies help your body recognize and fight the actual flu virus if you are exposed. Some people may experience achiness or other symptoms after getting the flu shot because of the immune response that is activated to protect you against flu infection.
Q: I'm healthy, do I still need to get the flu shot?
A: Even healthy individuals can benefit from the flu vaccine. Getting it will help to reduce the severity of symptoms if you were to get the flu. In addition, getting the flu vaccine helps to protect those in your community.
Q: Last year I had a flu shot and still got the flu. Why should I get it this year?
A: It is possible that last year you were exposed to the flu virus right before you were vaccinated, or you were exposed to a flu virus that was very different from the viruses in the flu vaccine you received. How well a flu vaccine works depends on the match between the viruses chosen to make the vaccine and those that are spreading and causing the illness for the season. There are many strains of the flu virus, and they can change quickly. A new flu vaccine is developed each year to protect against developing strains.
Without a yearly flu shot, you are at greater risk of getting the flu. In addition, you should receive the vaccine every year as vaccination reduces the severity of the flu, including flu-related doctor visits, flu-related hospitalization, ICU admission, and worsening of your chronic conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma and diabetes.
Q: Is there such a thing as getting the flu shot too early? What month is ideal?
A: If you only need one dose, September and October are generally the best months to be vaccinated against the flu. Children who need more than one dose and pregnant women in their third trimester should consider getting vaccinated in the earlier months of July and August.
Q: Is it too late to be vaccinated after October?
A: No. Vaccination will still provide immunity for as long as flu viruses are circulating. The seasonal flu generally peaks between December and March, but it can still be prevalent as late as May.
Q: Can I get my flu shot and COVID booster at the same time? Or do I need to spread them out?
A: Yearly flu shots and COVID-19 vaccines including the booster shot can be administered at the same time. Studies have found similar immune responses whether these vaccines are administered separately or at the same time.
Getting your flu shot will allow you to play an active role in protecting your health and that of your family, friends and community. Village Medical™ practices currently have the flu vaccine in the office, so remember to make an appointment to get your flu shot today.