4 minute read
Health and Wellness: Flu shots — What you need to know
from October 2024
by Johnston Now
A Q&A with Allison Hargrove, RN, BSN, VP/Chief Business Intelligence Officer CommWell Health
In this day and age, we have more access to information than ever before, but not all of that information is always accurate or up to date. We interviewed Allison Hargrove of CommWell Health, who answered these questions to give you the latest scoop on the flu vaccine.
Q: How effective are flu shots in preventing the flu?
A: On average, flu vaccines reduce the risk of flu illness by 40-60% when the vaccine strains are well-matched to circulating strains. Even if the vaccine doesn’t prevent the flu entirely, it often reduces the severity of symptoms and the risk of serious complications.
Q: Who should get a flu shot, and why?
A: The CDC recommends flu shots for everyone aged six months and older. Certain groups are particularly encouraged to get vaccinated, including:
Young children and older adults, as they are at higher risk for severe flu complications.
Pregnant women, to protect both themselves and their babies.
Individuals with chronic health conditions (like asthma, diabetes or heart disease) that can be exacerbated by the flu.
Healthcare workers and those who live with or care for people at high risk.
Q: How long does it take for the vaccine to become effective after getting the shot?
A: It typically takes about two weeks after receiving the flu shot for your body to build up protection against the flu. During this time, you might still be susceptible to the virus if exposed.
Q: What are the risks for people who skip the flu shot?
A: Skipping the flu shot increases your risk of contracting the flu, which can lead to serious complications like pneumonia, hospitalization or even death, particularly in high-risk groups. Not getting vaccinated also contributes to the spread of the virus in the community.
Q: How do flu vaccines interact with other vaccines, such as those for COVID 19?
A: Flu vaccines can be given alongside other vaccines, including COVID-19 vaccines. Studies have shown that receiving the flu and COVID-19 vaccines at the same time does not negatively affect the immune response or increase side effects. It's safe to receive them together.
Q: Is the flu shot safe for everyone?
A: The flu shot is safe for most people. Common side effects are mild and can include soreness at the injection site, low-grade fever or muscle aches. There are very rare, but serious, side effects. People with severe allergies to components of the vaccine or a history of a specific type of allergic reaction may need to discuss alternatives with their healthcare provider.
Q: Can the flu shot cause the flu? Why do some people believe this, and what is the medical explanation behind it?
A: The flu shot cannot cause the flu. The vaccine contains either inactivated (killed) virus or weakened virus that cannot cause illness. Some people might feel unwell after the shot due to the body's immune response, but this is not the flu. The belief that the flu shot causes the flu might stem from confusion with these mild reactions or with cases of flu occurring around the time of vaccination.
Q: Are there other types of flu vaccines available this year? Is the nasal mist an option, and if so, who is a good candidate for that?
A: This year, you may have options including:
Inactivated influenza vaccines (IIV): Standard flu shots.
Recombinant influenza vaccines (RIV): Another form of the inactivated vaccine, suitable for those with egg allergies.
Live attenuated influenza vaccines (LAIV): The nasal spray, available for certain age groups (generally healthy individuals aged 2-49 years). Not everyone is a good candidate, so consult your healthcare provider. Q: Does it matter where you get your shot? Are they all the same?
A: Flu shots are generally the same regardless of where you get them, whether at a pharmacy, clinic or doctor’s office. The key is ensuring the vaccine is from a reliable source and is appropriate for your age and health condition.
For more information, visit commwellhealth.org.
