Flu
Shots
Flu
Shots
Should I get a flu shot?Depending on the specific flu virus and the risk of a widespread flu outbreak, your doctor will probably recommend vaccination if you fall into one of the following categories:
- persons over age 65.
- persons with chronic lung diseases, such as asthma or emphysema.
- persons with heart disease, kidney disease, diabetes, or severe anemia.
- persons suffering from cancer or taking a drug that interferes with the body's immune system.
- persons who run a high risk of exposure to the flu virus.
- children and teenagers who are receiving long-term aspirin therapy and may be at risk for Reye's syndrome if they develop the flu.
- pregnant women due to deliver in the winter months.
Do flu shots really work?
Yes. The Centers for Disease Control reports that the vaccine reduces your chance of coming down with the flu by 60% - 80%. Even if you were to catch the flu, you would experience fewer and milder symptoms.When is the best time to get a flu shot?
In the fall. Immunization usually consists of one dose of vaccine. Children under age 9 who have never been vaccinated may need two injections, given one month apart. Most children do not need flu shots. Check with your doctor.Immunity develops about 2 weeks after vaccination and lasts for one year only. This is so because the flu virus changes, and different strains are usually responsible for epidemics from year to year.
I'm allergic to eggs. Can I still get a flu shot?
That depends on your symptoms when you eat eggs. Because the vaccine may contain egg protein, you shouldn't have a flu shot if eggs or egg-containing foods cause swelling in your face or tongue, hives, or wheezing.However, if you experience only stomach cramps or gas after eating eggs, you can probably receive the vaccine safely.
Can a flu shot give me the flu?
No. The vaccine contains inactive or weakened virus, so it can't produce the flu. When you receive the vaccine, your body responds by creating antibodies to the virus. These antibodies then fight the virus when you're exposed to it.About 30% of the people vaccinated experience mild soreness and swelling at the injection site. A few others suffer from muscle and joint aches and a low grade fever (less than 100oF. [37.8oC.]).
