The flu shot is the preferred way to prevent influenza. It contains inactive or dead viruses that cause your immune system to build antibodies against influenza viruses. It reduces your risk of catching the respiratory infection by up to 60%, according to the CDC.
The flu virus also improves your body’s ability to fight off the virus if you end up getting infected. It makes you less likely to need medical attention or hospitalization for the infection, reducing your risk of being one of the 40,000 people who die from flu-related complications each year (according to the CDC).
There is a belief that it is possible to contract influenza by getting the vaccine, but that is not how things work. The viruses used for the vaccine are inactive, so they cannot cause any sickness. However, they can have side effects that can make you feel like you have the flu.
Some people experience mild side effects after getting the flu shot. These typically do not last longer than 48 hours. The discomfort that they might cause is insignificant compared to dealing with an influenza infection. Common side effects that people who get vaccinated report include:
Some people can have rare allergic reactions to the flu shot. People with egg allergies are most likely to have an adverse reaction to the flu shot.
The most common side effect that patients complain about is soreness at the injection site, usually somewhere on the upper arm. The area might be red, sore, or swollen for a couple of days after getting the vaccine. Patients can manage any discomfort caused by the injection by taking over-the-counter (OTC) painkillers.
Headaches or body aches are the next most common side effects of the flu vaccine. These also go away within two days and can be managed with OTC painkillers.
Feeling faint or dizzy is another side effect of getting the flu vaccine. Eating a light snack before getting the vaccine can help prevent it. People who often feel like fainting when getting injections should inform their doctor before getting the vaccine. Feeling feverish is a less common side effect of the vaccine, and painkillers can help with any discomfort.
The flu vaccine can also be administered via nasal spray, which shares similar side effects with the injection and has unique side effects of its own. Side effects of the nasal spray include a runny nose, loss of appetite, sore throat, and fatigue.
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The flu shot's side effects are typically mild and do not last more than two days. Some people do not even notice any side effects after getting vaccinated. Give us a call or drop by our Reston office to learn more about the flu shot.
Request an appointment or call Millennium Medical Care Reston at 703-440-7000 for an appointment in our Reston office.
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