Flu Shot FAQ: Protect Your Health This Flu Season
When it comes to the flu, there is a simple, safe and effective way to protect yourself: getting a flu shot. Get answers to common questions about the flu shot in this FAQ.
Is it important to get a flu shot this year?
The flu can be a dangerous illness, even for healthy people. But the simple action of getting a flu shot can help you prevent the flu altogether and reduce the severity of your flu symptoms if you do get sick. That's why the CDC recommends that everyone 6 months and older gets a flu vaccine, with very few exceptions.
While the flu shot is important for almost everyone 6 months of age and older, it is especially important for people who are at high risk of serious complications from the flu. People at high risk for complications include those who are 65+ years of age and people living with chronic health conditions.
What about COVID-19 vaccines?
Like the flu shot, COVID-19 vaccines decrease your risk of severe illness and decrease your risk of hospitalization. To protect yourself from COVID-19, get vaccinated with the updated version of the vaccine. Learn more at conehealth.com/vaccine.
When should I get a flu shot this year?
If you’ve got time on your calendar, right now is the best time to get the flu shot! Flu season usually begins in October and peaks in January or February. While we don’t know when this year’s flu season will peak, getting vaccinated now will help you stay protected through the spring.
Are there side effects of the flu shot? Will it give you the flu?
The flu shot will not give you the flu. You may experience some discomfort while the shot is being given, but many people experience no other side effects. If you do experience side effects, they are usually mild and clear up within a few days.
Common side effects include:
- Soreness, redness, swelling or small amounts of bruising where the shot was given.
- Headache.
- A mild fever.
- Nausea.
- Body and muscle aches.
- Fatigue, or feeling tired.
More severe side effects may occur if you have an allergy to a vaccine ingredient. Learn more about who should get a flu vaccine here, and talk to your health care provider about what’s right for you.
What else can I do to prevent the flu?
The flu shot is the best way to protect yourself from the flu, but there are additional steps you can take to stay well. The same measures that help protect us from COVID-19 can also help protect us from the flu virus. This flu season, remember to:
- Wash your hands often. Use soap and water to scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use hand sanitizer.
- Wear a mask. Like COVID-19, the flu virus can spread through respiratory droplets in the air. A mask may help protect you from breathing in droplets that are carrying the flu. If you’re sick with the flu, wearing a mask may help prevent the virus from spreading to others.
Ready to get your flu shot and COVID-19 vaccine?
Flu shots and COVID-19 vaccines are available at many Cone Health Community Pharmacy locations! Walk-ins are welcome and appointments are not required:
To learn more about getting the COVID-19 vaccine at Cone Health, visit conehealth.com/vaccine.
About the Author
Catherine Metheney, MD, is a board certified family medicine practitioner with Cone Health Primary Care & Sports Medicine at MedCenter Kernersville.
