By: Dr. Chad Masters, MD, MBA, MedExpress
With
cooler weather and holiday get-togethers, comes a higher risk for flu
and flu-like illnesses, or “flu imposters.” And, each season I hear
many of the same concerns or misconceptions from patients regarding
flu. That’s why I’ve compiled this list of “common flu myths” − to not
only debunk them, but to help educate patients so we can put these myths
to bed and have a healthy season.
Myth #1:
I don’t need a shot. I haven’t gotten the flu yet.
Truth:
That’s
great you haven’t had the flu, but each year the strain is different,
so just because you haven’t had the flu yet, doesn’t mean you won’t
ever. There’s also another really important reason to get a flu shot −
and that’s for the people around you—children, pregnant women,
coworkers, elderly individuals or anyone with a compromised immune
system. Getting a flu shot is a healthy choice for you, your family and
the entire community. The more people who protect against the virus, the
less flu in general – which is good for everyone.
Myth #2:
Flu season hasn’t really hit yet, so I should wait until later in the year or when flu peaks to get one.
Truth:
The
best time to get a shot is before the season actually starts because it
takes two weeks for the body’s immune system to fully protect against
the flu. Flu season can start as
early as September but generally peaks in January or February and can
last until May. It’s a long season, which means that those who haven’t
received a flu shot are at increased risk for contracting the flu.
Myth #3:
If I get the shot, I will get the flu.
Truth:
Flu
vaccines given with a needle, which is the recommended method, are
either made with inactive flu virus or no virus at all. This means you
will not get the flu from getting a shot. There may be some minor side
effects, however. The most common are soreness, redness, swelling where
the shot was given, low-grade fever, headache or muscle aches. It’s easy
for some to confuse these symptoms with the flu, but they are side
effects that go away rather quickly.
Myth #4:
The flu is spread through dirty surfaces.
Truth:
While
the flu virus can live for a time on surfaces or objects, it is most
commonly spread through droplets in the air caused by sneezing, coughing
or even talking. The droplets can land in the mouths or noses of nearby
people, which is why it is so important to cover your mouth when you
sneeze or cough.
Myth #5:
I got a shot last year so I should be covered.
Truth:
The
vaccine is different each year because the flu strain is different each
year. It’s important to get a flu shot each and every year to protect
against the flu virus. It’s good for you and it’s good for those around
you, limiting the opportunity to spread the virus further.
And remember, flu
may seem like a bad cold, but it is often accompanied by extra symptoms
like high fever, headache, body aches and feeling completely wiped out.
Because it can cause more serious health complications, such as
pneumonia, sinusitis or dehydration, it is advised to seek medical
attention if you are exerpeincing any flu-like symptoms.
Aside from the flu shot, the best ways to beat the flu are to get plenty of sleep, eat well, disinfect shared surfaces and wash your hands often with soap and warm water.
By:
Dr. Chad Masters, MD, MBA, is a Regional Medical Director for
MedExpress, a national leader in providing walk-in health care. He has
held numerous medical leadership roles throughout his career and has
been a contributor to the medical education field as both an adjunct
professor for Nova Southeastern University and assistant professor at
the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville. He is an expert in health and wellness
programs and medical quality.
This
information is not intended to replace the advice of a physician. It is
information that is generally available. Each person has unique medical
needs based on several factors including age, genetics, body type and
build, medications, exposures to illness and medical history, to name a
few. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified healthcare
provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition
that you are experiencing. If you are suffering from a non-emergent
medical situation, it is suggested that you visit the nearest MedExpress
center or your family physician. If you believe you are experiencing a
medical emergency, call 911.
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