Flu shots: 12 of the most popular myths

As medical statistics show, only 1% of Ukrainians bother to get flu shots. This is not only due to basic carelessness about their health, but also to myths about vaccinations that we diligently read and hear from various sources. It's time to finally learn the truth about what flu shots are.

Myth 1: Flu shots can cause the flu

True. People are confused when they learn that flu shots contain the flu virus, but not a live one. They think that they will get the flu from the shot. But you should know that flu shots only contain inactivated flu viruses. They cannot cause infection.

Studies comparing people who had already had a flu shot with people who were given a salt water solution (a placebo) show that those who had received the flu shot had redness at the injection site and soreness in the arm. They did not experience the body aches, fever, cough, runny nose or sore throat that are common with the flu.

Myth 2: Flu shots don't help.

True. Some people believe that there is no point in getting a flu shot after November, because the cold season is starting and the immune system does not have time to prepare for it with the vaccine. But experts say that it is better to get a flu shot as soon as you are ready (unless there are contraindications, of course). A flu shot can be very helpful even if flu viruses are actively circulating around you.

The timing of the flu season varies from year to year. Seasonal flu peaks usually in January or February, but some people get the flu as late as May. So flu shots can be helpful at any time of year.

Myth 3: Flu shots will protect you from the disease for many years.

True. Just because you got a flu shot last year doesn't mean you're protected from it this year. Flu viruses change from year to year, meaning the flu vaccine needs to be updated every year.

Myth 4: Flu shots make other precautions unnecessary.

True. Even if you've gotten your flu shots up to date, scientists say it's important to take everyday steps to prevent the spread of germs and viruses. Including the ones that cause the flu. Simple precautions include:

• cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing
• stay away from people who are sick
• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water - or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, which is now available in any supermarket.

Myth 5: You only need flu shots when everyone around you is sick.

True. Some people think they only need a flu shot when everyone around them is sick with the flu. But if you wait until others are sick, it may be too late to protect yourself. It takes about two weeks for your body to adjust to the vaccine and begin to provide full protection to your body.

Myth 6: Children should get a flu shot from the moment they are born.

True. Children under six months of age are at great risk from flu attacks. But unfortunately, they are too young to get flu shots. The best way to protect them from flu is to make sure other family members are vaccinated.

Myth 7: Flu shots aren't very effective.

True. Flu shots don't work year-round, but studies show that getting the shot can reduce your chances of getting the flu by up to 90 percent. That's a lot, you know. The vaccine is slightly less effective for older adults and young children, but it can help them avoid serious complications from the flu even if they get it.

Myth 8: Everyone should get a flu shot

True. Doctors do not recommend flu shots for everyone, but for those over six months of age. It should not be given to people who have a strong allergy to chicken eggs or other substances in the vaccine or who have shown severe allergic reactions to previous flu shots. Flu shots should also not be given to those whose illness is currently in the acute stage or who have not yet had two weeks of their previous illness.

Myth 9: Flu shots cause autism

True. Some flu shots contain thimerosal, a mercury-containing preservative that has been linked to health problems including autism. But studies have shown that low doses of thimerosal are harmless, causing little more than redness and swelling at the injection site. Numerous studies have shown no link between thimerosal and autism.

Myth 10: One flu shot is enough

True. Only one flu vaccine is needed this year, and most people only get one shot each year. But children ages six months through nine years who have never received a seasonal flu vaccine should get two flu shots, at least four weeks apart.

Myth 11: Antiviral drugs make flu shots unnecessary

True. Yes, antiviral pills, liquids, powders, and inhalers are commonly used to treat flu symptoms if a person has not had a flu shot. But in practice, these are just a second line of defense against the flu. And these medications usually only work if taken within the first two days of the flu attack.

Myth 12: Flu shots are the only reliable protection option

True. If you hate getting shots, you can also use a nasal spray as a vaccine. It is especially good for protecting healthy children aged 2 and over and adults aged 49 and under from the flu. If you are pregnant or older, you should discuss the possibility of getting a flu shot with your doctor.

As we can see, flu shots are not that scary. So let's be guided by facts and common sense.