Flu Shot Myth Busters Fact: Seasonal influenza vaccination is the most important way to prevent seasonal influenza virus infections

Myth # 1: Flu shots increase risk of Alzheimer’s disease

Flu Shot Myth Busters MYTH: Flu shots increase risk of Alzheimer’s disease REALITY: Several studies link flu shots and other vaccinations to a reduced risk of Alzheimer's disease, overall better health, and a reduced risk of death from all causes.

Myth #2: It is too soon to be vaccinated

Flu Shot Myth Busters MYTH: It is too soon to be vaccinated REALITY: Providers should offer as soon as vaccine becomes available ( even if distribution is before October ).

Myth #3: I cannot get the flu shot because I am allergic to eggs

Flu Shot Myth Busters MYTH: I cannot get the flu shot because I am allergic to eggs REALITY : Those who are able to: eat lightly cooked egg (e.g., scrambled eggs) tolerate egg in baked products without a severe reaction ( difficulty breathing, swelling of lips/tongue ) are unlikely to react to vaccine. Prevention and Control of Influenza with Vaccines: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), 2011

Myth # 4: Washing hands frequently is just as effective as the flu shot prevent the flu

Flu Shot Myth Busters MYTH: Washing hands frequently is just as effective as the flu shot to prevent the flu REALITY: The number one way to prevent getting the flu is to get a flu shot. That way you’re building up your own protection and antibodies.

Myth # 5: The flu shot increases the chances of getting the flu.

Flu Shot Myth Busters MYTH: The flu shot increases the chances of getting the flu REALITY: The influenza vaccine is made from inactive flu viruses, so it cannot ‘give’ you the flu.influenza The flu shot triggers an immune response. Vaccines can have side effects: Vaccines – Low-grade fever – Muscle aches – Irritated eyes – Soreness at injection site.

Myth 6: The flu vaccine is only for people who are at high risk * *High-risk=elderly, young children, and people with chronic illnesses.

Flu Shot Myth Busters MYTH: The flu vaccine is only for people who are at high risk REALITY : Even young, healthy people can become severely ill with flu. Vaccination is critical to protect not just you, but the people around you.

Myth #7: I got vaccinated last year, so I don't need to get vaccinated this year

Flu Shot Myth Busters MYTH: I got vaccinated last year, so I don't need to get vaccinated this year REALITY: The flu virus strains virus change every year. It is important to get vaccinated every year to help protect yourself.

Myth #8 : The flu is just a bad cold

Flu Shot Myth Busters MYTH: The flu is just a bad cold REALITY : Colds do not usually result in serious health problems such as pneumonia, bacterial infections, or hospitalization. No vaccine can prevent a cold.

Myth #9 : Stomach flu is a type of influenza

Flu Shot Myth Busters MYTH: Stomach flu is a type of influenza REALITY : The flu is a respiratory infection with symptoms that can affect the entire body and not a stomach or intestinal illness.

Myth #10 : Young, healthy people don't need to be vaccinated; the flu is only dangerous for infants and the elderly

Flu Shot Myth Busters MYTH: Young, healthy people don't need to be vaccinated; the flu is only dangerous for infants and the elderly REALITY : If you get the flu, it can be spread to others even if you don’t feel sick. By getting vaccinated, you help protect yourself and those around you from getting the flu.

Myth #11 : I already got the flu this year, so I won’t bother getting vaccinated because I can't get it again

Flu Shot Myth Busters MYTH: I already got the flu this year, so I won’t bother getting vaccinated because I can't get it again REALITY : 100s of different types of flu viruses circulate at any given time. If you get the flu once, you only have protection from that specific type of flu.

Flu Shot Facts Health care workers who get vaccinated help to reduce the following: – transmission of influenza – staff illness and absenteeism – influenza-related illness and death, especially among people at increased risk for severe influenza illness

What are everyday actions to stop the spread of germs? Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw tissues in the trash after you use them. Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way. Avoid close contact with sick people. If you are sick with flu-like illness, stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care or for other necessities. While sick, limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.