FAQ

Below, we have compiled some of the most frequest questions that we are asked, to assist you in your research and to provide quick answers as you wait for more detailed responses from us.

Does getting the flu shot completely prevent me from contracting the flu?

The flu shot is 70-90% effective in preventing the flu and lasts for up to three months each flu season.

When should I get my flu shot?

For best results, you should get a flu shot between September and November each year. This will prepare you for what is commonly called the ‘flu season’.

Why is the flu is so contagious? What are the ways you can contract the flu?

The flu virus is easily spread from person to person through respiratory droplets by coughing or sneezing. It can also happen when touching the hand of someone with these droplets present, and touching your own nose or mouth before washing your hands.

I have heard so many people say they got the flu after getting the flu shot. Is this true? Can the vaccine make you ill?

In spite of rumors to the contrary, getting a flu shot can NOT give you the flu. You may have a sore arm for a day or so, but it will not set you back. And you will have protection against the flu for three months. Because the vaccine takes up to two weeks to reach full effectiveness, some people will develop flu like symptoms during that small window. Typically, however, with the help of the vaccine you will experience milder symptoms.

I think I might be sick. Should I still get the flu shot?

People who are significantly ill with fever should not be vaccinated until their symptoms are gone (this does not include minor illnesses, without fever).

Is there anything that I should be worried about before getting the vaccine? What if I have allergies? Do I need to consult a doctor?

Persons who have had hives or swelling of the lips or tongue, or who have experienced acute respiratory distress, or who collapse after eating eggs should consult a physician for appropriate evaluation to help determine if vaccine should be administered. Persons who have documented immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated hypersensitivity to eggs, including those who have had occupational asthma related to egg exposure or other allergic responses to egg protein, also might be at increased risk for allergic reactions to influenza vaccine, and consultation with a physician before vaccination should be considered. Hypersensitivity reactions to vaccine components can occur but are rare.

What is “thimerosal”? Should I be worried about an allergic reaction from the vaccine?

Thimerosal is a common preservative used during the vaccine’s developmental stages. Although exposure to vaccines containing thimerosal can lead to hypersensitivity, the majority of patients do not have reactions to thimerosal when it is administered as a component of vaccines, even when patch or intradermal tests for thimerosal indicate hypersensitivity. Heritage Health Concepts offers preservative-free influenza vaccine for individuals who have concern about thimerosal or mercury.

What is Guillain-Barre paralysis and is this a common side effect of the flu vaccine?

Guillain-Barré Syndrome (ghee-YAN bah-RAY) and TIV Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) has an annual incidence of 10-20 cases per 1 million adults. It is a disease whereby the body begins attacking its own nerve cells resulting in muscle weakness and paralysis. Substantial evidence exists that multiple infectious illnesses, most notably Campylobacter jejuni gastrointestinal infections and upper respiratory tract infections, are associated with GBS. It is an extremely rare side effect and currently, one in every 1 million people is at risk for this disease.

If you have questions about whether or not the flu shot is right for you, talk to your doctor. For additional information, visit the Centers for Disease Control’s flu site.

*This information is compiled from the Center for Disease Control and represents statistics over the last several years ( http://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/qa/disease.htm ).

FAQ