Influenza Myths

Myth:

Influenza is no more than a nuisance, much like the common cold.

Fact:

Influenza is a severe and sometimes life-threatening disease that accounts for an average of 36,000 deaths and more than 200,000 hospitalizations in the U.S. each year.

Myth:

You can get influenza from the influenza vaccine.

Fact:

Influenza vaccination does not cause influenza.

The most frequent side effect of the injectable influenza vaccine is soreness at the injection site for one to two days. Occasionally, some people experience a period of mild fever and fatigue for a day or two following vaccination.

Side effects from the nasal influenza vaccine are generally mild and temporary. The most common side effect is runny nose. Other side effects include cold-like symptoms, such as headache, cough, sore throat, tiredness or weakness, irritability and muscle aches.

Myth:

It is not necessary to get immunized against influenza every year as protection lasts from previous vaccinations.

Fact:

Because influenza viruses change from year to year and because immunity to influenza viruses wanes within a year after vaccination, it is important to get vaccinated against influenza every year.

Myth:

People shouldn't be immunized against influenza if they have any illness.

Fact:

Minor illnesses with or without fever should not prevent vaccination, especially in children with mild upper respiratory tract infections (colds) or upper respiratory allergy. Individuals with severe hypersensitivity to eggs or those who have had a previous vaccine-associated allergic reaction should avoid vaccination.