
Things to consider
All 6 months must obtain a flu vaccine in each flu season. It is recommended to obtain a flu vaccine along with another vaccine on the same visit if it is eligible and if the time for each vaccine is correct. Vaccines can prevent you from getting sick and decreases the possibilities of serious diseases if you get sick. It can also reduce the risk of having to be hospitalized from the flu.
The flu vaccine cannot give it flu. However, sometimes there are some side effects on the flu vaccine. They are usually very soft. The most common side effects are:
- Pain, redness and/or swelling where the shot was given
- Headache
- Fever
- Nausea
- Muscle and fatigue pains
These side effects will generally disappear on their own after a few days. If they don’t, talk to your doctor.
People who have serious and potentially mortal allergies to ingredients in flu vaccines should not obtain one. This could include gelatin or antibiotics. If you have had a strong allergic reaction to a flu vaccine in the past, talk to your doctor before receiving another chance.
For pregnant women, the flu vaccine can help protect you and your baby and can prevent you from getting sick in the first months after they are born. Flu vaccines can also reduce the risk of severely deadly flu in children by 75%.
Obtaining a flu vaccine can also protect people around them who are more likely to get sick, such as babies, young children and older people with existing medical conditions. If you have an existing health condition, talk to your doctor before receiving a flu vaccine.
Questions to ask your doctor
- Do I need a flu vaccine?
- What flu vaccine is adequate for me?
- How old my children have to have before they can vaccinate against the flu?
- Is there any risk involved with a flu vaccine?
- What are the side effects of obtaining a flu vaccine?
- Why do I need a flu vaccine every year?
- When should I get my flu vaccine?
Resources
Disease control centers: seasonal flu vaccines
Flu disease load | Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Vaccines.gov: Find flu vaccines
This content is backed by an unrestricted grant from Astrazeneca Pharmaceuticals LP.