The Flu Vaccine: Debunking Common Myths and Misconceptions

It’s that time of year again—time to get your flu vaccine.

About a decade ago, I had a rough bout with the flu. I felt suddenly fatigued and had to lie down. At home, I quickly fell into bed. My fever spiked to 103 degrees, and despite taking Tamiflu, I spent six miserable days on the couch, feeling achy and congested. I hadn’t received my flu shot that year.

Fast forward to two years ago—my entire family received their flu shots. Over Christmas, we all came down with mild symptoms: body aches, fevers, sore throats, and some respiratory issues. My husband tested positive for the flu, but our symptoms were quite mild; our fevers didn’t exceed 101 degrees. Just three days later, we were back to our normal routines.

Some might argue that the flu vaccine failed us since we still contracted the flu, but our cases were so mild that I was able to sew pajama pants for my kids while feeling under the weather. We experienced no complications or long-lasting fatigue. My husband, who is susceptible to bronchitis and pneumonia, managed to keep his lungs in good shape. Those flu shots did exactly what they were supposed to do.

There is a lot of misinformation surrounding the flu vaccine, its mechanism, and its objectives. In these times, it’s essential to minimize unnecessary visits to doctors or hospitals. If you have the opportunity to get vaccinated, you should take it.

No, the Flu Vaccine Isn’t Foolproof

The effectiveness of the flu vaccine varies each year based on scientists’ ability to predict which strains will circulate, according to The New York Times. The flu virus mutates quickly, leading to vaccine efficacy rates between 19% and 60% from 2009 to 2019, as reported by Science Magazine.

However, a vaccine that you don’t receive can’t protect you from illness. More importantly, the Mayo Clinic states that if you do get vaccinated and still catch the flu, your symptoms are likely to be less severe. Additionally, the flu shot can significantly reduce your risk of complications and hospitalizations—vital during times when we want to avoid medical facilities.

No, the Flu Vaccine Won’t Make You Sick

The Mayo Clinic clearly states: “No. The flu vaccine can’t give you the flu.” This is a biological impossibility. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the flu shot is made with either an inactivated (dead) virus or a single protein from the influenza virus. While the nasal spray contains a weakened live virus, it is incapable of causing illness.

Despite this, a narrative has emerged among skeptics (and I once believed it myself) that the flu vaccine causes the flu. The Mayo Clinic explains that this misunderstanding arises from normal vaccine reactions, such as low-grade fever, fatigue, and muscle aches. Individuals who opt for the nasal spray may experience symptoms like runny noses, headaches, and coughing. However, as the CDC points out, these reactions are significantly milder than those caused by an actual flu infection.

Moreover, it takes about two weeks for immunity from the flu vaccine to develop. If you are exposed to the virus during this window, it may seem like the vaccine made you sick, but that’s not the case. And if you didn’t receive a positive flu test, you may have just had a really bad cold or another virus.

The Flu Vaccine and Pharmaceutical Companies

A study in Social Science Medicine found that many people forgo the flu vaccine due to skepticism about the profit-driven healthcare industry. One individual remarked, “These people, it’s a business. They don’t make money curing you; they make money selling you drugs.” Some argue that the need for annual vaccinations is a sign of a flawed system, unlike the measles vaccine, which isn’t required yearly. However, the flu virus evolves rapidly; those vaccinated in early fall may not maintain immunity by late spring, as noted by Science Magazine.

While it’s true that vaccines are profitable—if they weren’t, no one would produce them—it’s also important to note that fewer companies manufacture vaccines now than in the past due to low profits. A shortage of vaccines would only worsen if they became unprofitable to produce.

Yes, You Can Afford a Flu Vaccine

If you have insurance, it likely covers the cost of the flu shot. I received mine for free at my local pharmacy this year. If you’re insured through the Affordable Care Act or Medicare Part B, your vaccination is also free. Many free clinics and health departments offer vaccinations at no cost, and colleges often provide free shots to students and faculty. If you don’t have insurance, you can expect to pay around $20 to $50 for a flu shot, but with some research, you might find it for free.

Get Vaccinated Now

This year, health experts are concerned about a potential “twindemic,” which could strain our healthcare systems. Last flu season, there were between 39-56 million cases, 740,000 hospitalizations, and approximately 24,000-60,000 deaths. With hospitals at capacity in many areas, receiving a flu shot is more than just a personal choice—it’s a civic responsibility.

Vaccination can help alleviate pressure on our healthcare system and prevent severe illness. It works, it won’t give you the flu, and so what if pharmaceutical companies profit from it? Their ability to manufacture vaccines depends on profitability. By getting vaccinated, you not only protect yourself but also contribute to the overall health of your community.

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Summary

The flu vaccine is a critical tool in protecting against influenza, despite common misconceptions that it can cause illness. Vaccination helps reduce the severity of symptoms and the risk of complications, making it especially important during peak flu season. While the effectiveness of the vaccine can vary, its benefits far outweigh the risks. Affordability is generally not a barrier, as many insurance plans cover the cost, and there are free options available. Getting vaccinated is not just a personal choice; it’s a responsibility to support public health.