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Did you know that less than half of adults get their yearly flu vaccine? That number is low due to common misconceptions and fears surrounding the vaccine, but we’re here to help set the record straight. If you’ve been avoiding the flu shot because you’re not sure if it’s safe or not, we have all the answers you’ve been looking for!
Yes, Flu Shots are Safe!
The flu shot is very safe. In fact, the majority of patients report no symptoms at all. Some patients report slight injection site redness, a stuffy nose, and muscle aches for a few days following the vaccine.
Anybody over the age of 6 months old is safe to get a flu shot, even pregnant women! the flu vaccine contains an inactive version of the flu that gives your body the antibodies it needs to keep the illness at bay, without any unsafe side effects.
Myths About Flu Shots
There are two major myths that we hear every year about the flu vaccine. Let’s break them down one at a time!
- The Vaccine Makes You Sick – some people claim that the flu vaccine actually gives you the flu, but this is false. Since the injection comes in the form of inactive flu cells, this is impossible.
- The Flu Shot Doesn’t Work – some people opt out of the vaccine because they think it doesn’t work, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. The flu shot actually reduces your risk for developing the flu by over 80%! It does not protect against the common cold and other illnesses though.
The Benefits of the Flu Shot
The flu shot comes with many benefits besides just avoiding not feeling well. When you get the flu, you typically have to miss work or school. That means wasted time, money lost, and an interruption to your daily life. The flu shot is able to help you lower your risk for missing work days and keep your daily routine intact.
Some people even end up in the hospital for the flu if they aren’t vaccinated, which leads to a large pile of medical bills you’ll have to pay back!
Now that you understand why it’s so important to get vaccinated, and know that there’s no health risks involved, it’s time to go out and get your flu shot. Stop by your local urgent care center today to receive your flu vaccine quickly and at little to no cost!
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