With influenza (flu) often being the topic of conversation at this time of year, sometimes false information can be repeated and understood to be truth. Consulate Health Care would like to set the record straight on some myths about the flu.

Flu Myth #1 - The flu vaccine can cause influenza.

Not True! The injectable flu vaccine does not contain the live virus, so it is impossible to get influenza from the vaccine.

Flu Myth #2: Our staff stays at home if they are sick - so vaccination is not necessary.

Not True! The injectable flu vaccine does not contain the live virus, so it is impossible to get influenza from the vaccine.

Flu Myth #3: The flu shot doesn’t work.

Not True! The influenza vaccine will prevent influenza most of the time. In some scientific studies, the effectiveness of the vaccine ranges from 70 to 90 percent, depending on how well the circulating viruses match those in the vaccine.

Flu Myth #4: It’s too late to get vaccinated after Thanksgiving.

Not True! Vaccination can still be beneficial as long as flu viruses are circulating. CDC recommends that providers begin to offer flu vaccination by the end of October, if possible, but if you have not been vaccinated by Thanksgiving (or the end of November), it can still be protective to get vaccinated in December or later.

If you found an error, highlight it and press Shift + Enter or click here to inform us.

Print Friendly, PDF & Email