Flu Vaccine (flu shot): Myths and Facts

The flu, also referred to as Influenza, is a highly contagious respiratory ailment that can result in severe symptoms such as fever, coughing, body aches, and fatigue. The flu impacts many people globally each year, leading to hospital stays and even fatalities.

Despite its established effectiveness, the flu vaccine continues to be plagued by various myths and misconceptions. Some individuals mistakenly believe the vaccine can cause the flu, while others think it is unnecessary or harmful. These false beliefs can discourage people from getting vaccinated, putting themselves and others at risk.

What Is the Flu Vaccine (Flu Shot)?

Influenza vaccines, commonly referred to as "flu shots," are designed to safeguard against the four prevalent strains of the influenza virus projected for the upcoming season. While the majority of these vaccines are administered through an injection, typically in the arm, there's also an option for a nasal spray flu vaccine.

How Is the Flu Vaccine Made?

The process of creating a flu vaccine begins with the selection of the strains of the flu virus that are expected to circulate in the upcoming flu season. These are then grown in a laboratory, usually in eggs or cell cultures, to produce a large amount of virus.

Next, the virus is inactivated, which means it is no longer capable of causing disease but still retains its ability to trigger an immune response. It is then purified and processed to create the vaccine.

Once ready, it is tested for safety and effectiveness, after which it gets approval for use by the regulatory authority and then distributed to healthcare providers and clinics for patient administration.

Flu vaccines prompt the body to produce antibodies approximately two weeks after administration. These antibodies protect against infection with the viruses used to make the vaccine. So, if a person is exposed to the flu virus in the future, their immune system will be ready to recognise and fight it, reducing the risk of illness and severe symptoms.

Note: Each year, the flu vaccine is updated to incorporate the most commonly circulating strains of the flu virus.

Why Should You Get the Flu Vaccine?

There are numerous reasons why receiving a flu vaccine is highly recommended. Some of these include:

1. Guarding against the flu: The flu vaccine decreases the likelihood of falling ill from the disease and lessens the severity of symptoms, should an infection occur.
2. Protecting others: In addition to protecting yourself, getting a flu vaccine also helps protect others who may be more susceptible to the flu virus. This includes young children and individuals with weakened immune systems.
3. Avoiding serious health problems:The flu can lead to severe health issues, including pneumonia, hospitalisation, and, in severe cases, death. Receiving a flu vaccine significantly lowers the risk of serious complications.
4. Cost-effective solution: The cost of getting a flu vaccine is significantly less compared to the expenses associated with treating flu-related health problems or taking time off work or school.
5. Convenient: Flu vaccines are widely accessible and easily obtained from many healthcare providers and pharmacies. Getting one is a simple and hassle-free way to protect yourself and those around you.

What Are the Side Effects of the Flu Vaccine?

After receiving the flu vaccine, some individuals may experience mild symptoms. These usually occur within a day or two of the vaccine and disappear within a few days. Some of the most prevalent mild side effects include:

• Slight discomfort at the injection site
• Fatigue
• Mild muscle aches
• Low-grade fever
• Mild nausea

It is important to note that the side effects are usually mild and short-lived, indicating that the body is building immunity to the flu. These can be alleviated with over-the-counter pain medication such as ibuprofen or paracetamol.

While the flu vaccine is proven to be safe, serious side effects can rarely occur in some individuals. These include:

• Seizures
• Guillain-Barré syndrome (a rare condition that can cause weakness or paralysis)
• Anaphylaxis (a rare but life-threatening allergic reaction)

If you experience any severe or persistent symptoms, consult your doctor immediately.

Myths and Facts About the Flu Vaccine

Following are some common misconceptions regarding the flu vaccine.

Myth #1: The Flu vaccine can give you the flu.

Fact #1: One of the biggest myths about the flu vaccine is that it can give you the flu. This is simply not true. The Flu vaccine cannot give you the flu. The vaccine is made from either inactivated (dead) flu virus or a weakened live virus, which cannot cause the flu. In rare cases, some people may experience mild flu-like symptoms after getting the flu vaccine, but this is not the same as having the flu.

Myth #2: The Flu vaccine is not effective.

Fact #2: Another myth about the flu vaccine is that it is ineffective in preventing the flu. However, the flu vaccine is highly effective in reducing your risk of serious illness. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the flu vaccine can reduce the risk of flu illness by up to 60%.

Myth #3: The Flu vaccine is only for those with weak immune systems.

Fact #3: There is a common misconception that the flu vaccine is only recommended for individuals with compromised immunity, such as the elderly, young children, and those with medical conditions. However, this is not the case. Everyone is encouraged to get a flu vaccine, regardless of age or health, as the flu can affect anyone. Receiving the shot protects not only the individual but also those in their surrounding environment.

Myth #4: Ingredients in the Flu vaccines are harmful.

Fact #4: Some people are concerned about the ingredients in flu vaccines. However, remember these ingredients have been thoroughly tested with various scientific experiments and are distributed to the public because they are considered safe.

Myth #5: You do not need a Flu vaccine every year.

Fact #5: Contrary to popular belief, getting a flu vaccine once is not enough to provide long-lasting protection. The flu virus can evolve every year, and getting a yearly vaccine is the most effective way to ensure defence. Furthermore, as time passes, an individual's immunity to the flu can decrease, making yearly flu vaccines crucial in maintaining proper immunity.

Make an Appointment at Pantai Hospitals

The flu vaccine is a dependable and efficient means of preventing the flu and decreasing your chances of severe illness. Despite the prevalence of falsehoods and misunderstandings about the flu vaccine, it is essential to receive it annually to remain protected and curb the transmission of the flu to others.

If you have any doubts regarding the flu vaccine, it is recommended that you consult with your doctor to obtain accurate and current information.

Want to get a flu vaccine for yourself or your child? Get in touch with us to book an appointment today, or visit our Paediatric Care Department at your nearest Pantai Hospital.

Pantai Hospitals have been accredited by the Malaysian Society for Quality in Health (MSQH) for its commitment to patient safety and service quality.