Flu Shot Facts:
What are the risks?
 The viruses in the vaccine are
killed,
so you cannot get influenza from the vaccine.
Almost
all people who get influenza vaccine have no serious
problems from it. Reactions usually show up within
minutes to hours of the shot. Mild reactions are more common and not
serious. These can include fever, muscle aches, and soreness,
redness or swelling in the area where the shot was given
Life-threatening reactions to the flu shot are very rare. Any unusual condition, such as a high fever or behavior
changes
can signal a serious allergic reaction. Call your doctor if you notice these
signs:
- difficulty breathing
- hoarseness
- wheezing
- hives
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- paleness
- weakness
- a fast heart beat
- dizziness
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If these problems occur, they usually begin soon after the shot
and last 1-2 days.
Can I get the flu even if I get a shot?
Yes. Flu viruses change often, and they might not always
be covered by the vaccine. But people who get the flu despite being vaccinated often have a milder case
than
those who did not get the shot. Also, to many people
"the flu" is any illness with fever and cold
symptoms. They may expect the shot to prevent
these illnesses. But the vaccine is effective only
against illness caused by flu viruses, and not against
other causes of fever and colds.
Ask your doctor before getting an influenza vaccination if
you have ever had a serious allergic reaction to eggs or a previous
dose of influenza vaccine, or have a history of Guillain-Barr Syndrome.
Call 401-444-4800 for more flu shot information.
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