What spreads faster than the flu? Myths about flu shots

BREWER — We’ve all heard them before, “The flu actually gives you the flu,” “the flu shot isn’t effective” or “the flu is basically just a common cold.”

These are just a few of the myths that circulate as we look toward flu season, which usually peaks in the winter. However, as Kelly Dionne, PharmD, a pharmacist with Northern Light Health notes, there’s not an ounce of truth to these statements.

“I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: The flu shot does not give you influenza,” Dionne said. “In fact, it’s the most effective way to prevent the flu, which can be very serious, even fatal for some who are immunocompromised or elderly.”

The flu shot, Dionne says, contains an inactive strain, so you absolutely cannot get the flu from the vaccine. To help prevent the spread of influenza, she adds, it’s important to get the flu shot, especially as kids go back to school, and we begin to gather round the television with friends with football season in full swing.

“In addition to being the right thing to do, protecting your family and loved ones, it’s also pretty much painless,” she notes. “If you’re not good with needles, just look away; you’ll feel a slight pinch, and it’s over before you know it.”

To get the facts on the flu shot, talk with your pharmacist or primary care provider.

“We’re always here to answer your questions,” Dionne said. “We want to make sure that you’re well-informed. If you hear a friend mention one of these myths followed by the phrase, ‘That’s just what I’ve heard,’ they’re probably not a reliable source. Ask a medical professional, and we’ll explain to you how and why the flu shot works.”

If you’re interested in scheduling a flu shot, it’s quick and easy. Visit Northern Light Health’s new and improved scheduling platform online at northernlighthealth.org/pharmacy.