Does the flu shot give me a mild flu ? According to the Centre for Disease Control ( CDC ), ‘ A flu shot cannot cause flu . Flu vaccines , given with a needle , are currently made either with flu vaccine viruses that have been ‘ inactivated ’ and are not infectious , or with no flu viruses at all . The most common side-effects from the shot are soreness , redness , tenderness or swelling where the shot was given . Serious allergic reactions to flu vaccines are very rare .’
Still not convinced ? Flu viruses spread very quickly from person to person .
• Even if the flu vaccine is not 100 % effective against the current flu strain , it will reduce your chances of getting flu and , if you do get it , it will be a great deal milder
• More importantly , by having the flu vaccine you will protect others , via what is called ’ herd immunity ’. Others may be vulnerable family members such as small babies and the elderly as well as those who are immune compromised
While the world focuses on COVID-19 , social distancing , wearing a mask and hand washing or sanitisation can help protect you from both COVID-19 and flu .
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Bonitas Member Magazine Issue 2 | 2021