Flu shot myths

Influenza, commonly known as flu, is a viral infection caused by the influenza virus. This infection can vary in magnitude; while some people are able to recover following the impact of the virus, others might get serious complications from the virus. 

Not only does it adversely affect the respiratory health, but it can also be fatal in some people as well. Since the virus is rather pervasive, and is easy to spread, one cannot entirely protect against it. 

However, you can take steps to mitigate the impact on the virus. In this endeavor, the most important step is getting a flu shot, as the Best ENT Specialist in Lahore will also suggest to you. 

What are flu shots?

Medically known as influence vaccination, flu shots are an important component of immunization portfolio. These help in protecting against a serious bout of influenza, as they equip the body already with immunity. 

There are different types of influenza shots available in the market, and you should consult your doctor about which one to get. 

Myths about flu shots

Unfortunately, immunization efforts can be met with skepticism. There are many conspiracy theorists who make vaccines very controversial. Hence, it is understandable when people become apprehensive about the vaccines. 

Therefore, it’s vital to debunk these myths, so people are able to make more informed decisions about flu shots. 

Myth 1: Flu is not a big issue

One should never have a casual attitude about flu. While some healthy people can soldier through the infection, there are many who don’t fare so well. 

For many people, especially those who are immunocompromised and old, flu can pose many complications. Alongside causing hospitalization, it can also lead to death as well. Hence, one should always be careful about the influenza virus. 

Myth 2: Getting the shot can give you the flu

There are mainly two types of vaccines, injectable and nasal spray. The former contains dead virus, the latter contains attenuated virus. Both cannot cause infection. 

The vaccination, can, however cause a reaction, the symptoms of which include fever, muscle pain, cough, soreness in the throat, digestive problems like nausea and vomiting etc. 

Myth 3: You can still get the virus even if you get the vaccine 

In short, yes, but there are also certain caveats. The most important one is that even if you get the flu, the impact on your body is not as strong. 

There are other disclaimers as well; there are greater chances of getting the flu still if you haven’t received the right shot for the right virus. Moreover, you might have also acquired the virus before you got your flu shot, and it became apparent after. Or people who are old and have several complications can also get the virus on account of extremely low immunity.

Myth 4: It’s better that you get the virus and make your immune system stronger

There are many issues with this myth; getting the virus can be dangerous, and even fatal. Moreover, vaccines don’t make your immune system weak, but they help to train the immune system, without the risks associated with the virus. 

Myth 5: You don’t need to get the shot regularly 

You should get flu shots regularly, as the virus keeps changing. So, while the shot might work for some types, it might no longer be viable for the latest mutations. Hence, getting regular shots is important. 

Myth 6: You don’t need the shot if you are young

We just saw the pandemic in which old and young, both died. Hence, one cannot say for sure that young people can survive the virus. 

Moreover, it is not just the matter of not getting the virus yourself, but the safety of others is also at risk. So, think on a macro-level. 

Final word 

Instead of relying on WhatsApp forwards, and mere hearsay, you should talk to a credible doctor like Dr. Zafar Mahmood to make a decision about whether or not you should be getting a flu shot.