Myth 1: The flu shot gives you the flu
According to Clicks Pharmacist Waheed Abdurahman, the most persistent myth about the flu vaccine is that you’ll get sick after receiving it. “This cannot true because the virus used to make vaccine is inactivated,” he explains.
Any symptoms you may develop after getting your flu shot are merely your immune system’s reponse – but definitely not an infection caused by the vaccine.
Myth 2: The vaccine is not proven to prevent the flu
If you get your flu shot, you’re about 60 per cent less likely to get the flu. In scientific terms, that’s very solid proof of prevention indeed.
Yes, it is possible that you may still get sick. It takes about two weeks for your immune system to develop antibodies in reaction to the vaccine.
So, if you pick up the virus in that window period (or shortly before), you could still suffer from the flu (although your symptoms would likely be far milder than if you didn’t get your shot).
It’s also possible to contract a strain that isn’t covered by this year’s vaccine. And while it’s rare, some people do pick up a strain that’s covered despite receiving the vaccine.
The point is that while the vaccine is not a guarantee, it is excellent protection.
Myth 3: I should wait to get vaccinated
Another pervasive false notion is that getting the vaccine later gives you cover for longer. Not true, confirms Abdurahman. “It takes up to two weeks for the vaccine to deliver it maximum protection, which is why you should always get vaccinated as soon as possible every year.” Waiting will only increase your risk of infection.
Myth 4: It’s better to get the flu than to get the vaccine
The flu may be common but that doesn’t mean it isn’t is a serious illness, especially for small children, the elderly, and people with underlying health conditions such as asthma, diabetes and heart disease.
Even perfectly healthy people can develop serious complications from the flu, making vaccination the much safer choice.
What is the four-strain flu vaccine?
In 2020, a quadrivalent – or ‘four-strain’– vaccine is available for the first time. “The standard flu vaccine used in this country has always been a combination of the three worst strains of flu,” explains Abdurahman. “This year, the World Health Organisation recommended a fourth strain be added for additional protection.”
Four-strain flu vaccines are made in exactly the same way as three-strain flu vaccines – the only difference is the addition of one more common strain of the virus.
Book an appointment for a flu vaccination at a Clicks Clinic by calling 0860 254 257 or visiting Clicks Clinics online.
Also read: Is it an allergy or a virus?
IMAGE CREDIT: Shutterstock
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