Flu Shot Basics
The flu shot contains inactivated flu viruses designed to prepare your immune system to fight off influenza. It takes around two weeks after vaccination to develop protection.
Flu shots are updated annually to target the main flu strains predicted for the upcoming flu season. The influenza virus mutates quickly, so the formulation must be adjusted regularly.
While the flu shot does not guarantee you won't get the flu, studies show it reduces the risk by 40-60% when the vaccine is well matched to circulating strains.
How Flu Shots Work
Flu shots work by exposing your immune system to parts of inactivated influenza viruses. This triggers your body to produce antibodies against those strains.
If you later encounter the live flu viruses, these antibodies will recognize and help neutralize them to prevent illness. Immune memory also kicks in for stronger protection.
Types of Flu Shots
There are several flu shot options to choose from, including:
Standard Dose Flu Shots
These conventional flu shots contain a standard dose of inactivated flu virus and are approved for everyone over 6 months old.
High Dose Flu Shots
High dose flu vaccines contain 4x more antigen than the standard dose. They generate a stronger immune response and are approved for those 65 and older.
Adjuvanted Flu Shots
Adjuvants are ingredients added to vaccines to boost the immune response. Adjuvanted flu shots may be given to those 65 and older.
Cell-Based and Recombinant Flu Shots
These flu shots are produced in cell cultures rather than chicken eggs, avoiding egg protein. They may be given to anyone with an egg allergy.
Nasal Spray Flu Vaccine
The nasal spray flu vaccine contains live but weakened flu viruses. It is approved for healthy non-pregnant people ages 2-49 years old.
Who Should Get the Flu Shot?
The CDC recommends annual flu vaccination for everyone 6 months and older with rare exception. It's especially important for higher risk groups like:
- Adults 65 and older
- Pregnant women
- Children younger than 5
- Those with chronic conditions like diabetes, asthma, heart disease
- Those with weakened immune systems
- Residents of nursing homes and long-term care facilities
- Healthcare workers
- Caregivers of high risk individuals
Where to Get the Sharp Flu Shot
There are many places to get your seasonal flu shot, including:
Your Primary Care Doctor
Schedule an appointment with your regular physician to get your flu shot.
Retail Pharmacies
Most pharmacies like CVS, Walgreens and Rite Aid offer flu shots with no appointment needed.
Urgent Care Centers
Many urgent care clinics provide flu shots on a walk-in basis in addition to medical care.
Health Clinics
Check with community health centers, student health clinics, or workplace clinics about flu shot availability.
Public Health Departments
Local health departments and health districts often organize mass flu shot clinics.
Potential Flu Shot Side Effects
The flu shot is very safe, but some mild side effects are possible, including:
- Soreness, redness or swelling at injection site
- Low grade fever
- Muscle aches
- Headache
- Fatigue
These effects are normal signs your immune system is responding to the vaccine. They usually resolve within 1-2 days.
Flu Shot Effectiveness
The effectiveness of the flu shot varies each year based on how well vaccine strains match circulating flu viruses. Recent studies show:
- During best match seasons, effectiveness is 40-60%
- During moderate match seasons, effectiveness is around 40%
- During poor match seasons, effectiveness drops to 20-30%
Even when the vaccine is not optimally matched, it can reduce flu severity and complications.
Frequently Asked Flu Shot Questions
When should I get my flu shot?
September and October are the ideal months to get vaccinated before flu activity picks up. However the flu shot can be given any time during flu season.
Can I get sick from the flu shot?
You cannot get influenza from injectable flu shots, which contain killed viruses. Minor side effects like low grade fever are possible as your immune system responds.
Is there anyone who should not get the flu vaccine?
Infants under 6 months, people with severe egg allergies, and those who had Guillain-Barr syndrome after a past flu shot should avoid vaccination.
Do I need a flu shot every year?
Yes, annual vaccination is recommended because flu viruses mutate quickly. Immunity wanes over time so you need a new shot each season.
What precautions should I take besides getting a flu shot?
Get plenty of sleep, manage stress, wash hands frequently, avoid contact with sick individuals, and disinfect surfaces that could harbor germs.
Getting your seasonal flu shot is the best step you can take to protect yourself and loved ones from influenza. Follow the recommendations to get vaccinated every flu season.
FAQs
Who should get the flu shot?
The CDC recommends a yearly flu shot for everyone over 6 months old, especially higher risk groups like adults over 65, pregnant women, young children, those with chronic illnesses, and healthcare workers.
Can the flu shot give me the flu?
No, the injectable flu shot contains killed viruses so it cannot cause influenza. Minor temporary side effects are possible as your immune system responds.
When is the best time to get vaccinated?
September and October are ideal for flu shot vaccination to get protected before peak flu season. However, shots can be given throughout the flu season.
How often do I need the flu shot?
Annual vaccination against the flu is recommended because the viruses change rapidly and immunity decreases over time. You need a new shot each flu season.
Are flu shots safe for pregnant women?
Yes, the flu shot is safe and highly recommended for pregnant women at any trimester. Getting vaccinated protects both mother and baby from serious flu complications.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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