Flu Shot Facts

We know what you’re thinking: “I had the flu shot last year, so why should I have it again?” The answer is simple. Last year’s shot won’t protect you this year. The flu is caused by a virus. There are many strains of the flu virus, and the one that was active last year may not be the one you’ll need to worry about this year.

Flu shots are important: By having one, you can protect yourself from getting the flu and its very serious complications, such as bronchitis, pneumonia or even death.

Those at greatest risk for influenza should get the flu shot in October or November so the body has time to build immunity before the flu outbreak hits. However, you can still benefit by getting the flu shot anytime during flu season, which typically lasts from December through March.

The flu shot does not contain a live virus, so you cannot get the flu from it. A very small number of people develop mild symptoms that last a day or two at most after receiving the vaccine. In addition, the flu vaccine is not 100 percent effective at preventing the flu, but those who do get the flu are much more likely to have a milder case. If you are older than 50 or at risk because of other health problems, you should not ignore the benefit of getting a mild, rather than serious, case of the flu. It’s not the flu that kills; the physical complications do.

While you’re getting your flu shot, get your pneumonia shot, too. The pneumococcal vaccine can be received anytime during the year and is usually only given once. However, if you were vaccinated before age 65 or have a chronic illness, you might need a second shot in five years. Ask your doctor if you need one.