Common Concerns About the Flu Shot: Debunked

Every fall, flu shot campaigns remind everyone of the importance of vaccination, but many people come up with reasons to avoid it. Whether it’s fear of needles or skepticism about whether immunization is necessary, the excuses are endless. 

In truth, the flu shot is a proven way to protect yourself and those around you from influenza.

The flu isn’t just a nuisance or a bad cold — it’s a serious public health concern. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that annual flu-related deaths in the United States range from 5,000 to 51,000, with hospitalizations reaching over 700,000 in some years.

While it’s particularly dangerous for infants, the elderly, and those with chronic diseases like diabetes, even the healthiest people can catch the flu. Rates vary over time, but the CDC estimates up to 41 million people in the US suffer from flu symptoms each year.

At Keven Tagdiri, M.D., we want to tackle the most common concerns surrounding flu shots. By reassuring our patients that they have nothing to fear, we hope to protect our community of Encinitas, California, against the flu’s effects.

Common concern 1: Flu shots can give you the flu

This common misconception keeps many people from getting vaccinated, so let’s clarify: The flu shot can’t give you the flu.

Flu shots contain either an inactivated (dead) flu virus or a single protein taken from the virus. Neither of these can cause infection. The nasal spray version does contain a weakened live virus but is designed not to make you sick.

So, no matter which type of flu vaccine you choose, you won’t catch the flu from it.

Common concern 2: It’s unsafe to get a flu shot during pregnancy

Don’t believe this myth — pregnancy is an essential time to get vaccinated. Expectant mothers have a higher risk of severe flu complications, and getting the flu shot helps protect both you and your baby.

Research shows vaccination during pregnancy lowers the risk of complications, congenital abnormalities, and other issues. Additionally, the immunity you gain passes to your baby, protecting them in the first few months of life when they’re too young for their own vaccination.

Common concern 3: Flu shots are dangerous if you have an egg allergy

It’s true that most flu shot manufacturers use egg protein in their production, but studies show the risk of an allergic reaction to flu vaccines is extremely low.

If you’re still concerned, egg-free options are available — ask us for details. These alternatives ensure everyone, even those with egg allergies, can get vaccinated safely.

Common concern 4: Side effects

Worries about vaccine side effects are a common problem, often fueled by misinformation. Extensive research shows that vaccines cause few problems for most people, and the benefits far outweigh the risks.

The flu shot’s safety record is among the best of any vaccine, so most people experience nothing more than mild soreness at the injection site for a day or two.

Why the flu shot matters

The CDC recommends annual flu vaccines for nearly everyone 6 months and older, barring rare medical exceptions. 

Vaccination not only protects you but also reduces the risk of spreading the flu to others, especially vulnerable groups like young children, older people, and those with weakened immune systems.

Getting the flu vaccine each year lowers your risk of infection by 40%-60%. And if you do get sick, vaccination reduces the severity of your symptoms, helping you recover faster.

We encourage all our patients at Keven Tagdiri, M.D. to take this simple step to safeguard their health and the health of those around them. Call us to arrange your family’s flu shots, or request an appointment online today.