Getting a yearly flu shot is the best way to avoid the misery of the flu, with studies determining that the vaccine is up to 60 percent effective for otherwise healthy adults. Though you can receive a flu shot anytime, the best time of year is late October; this way, you'll be protected during the height of flu season. Many primary care providers have found that there is a lot of misinformation floating around about the flu vaccine; to clear up these issues, three common misconceptions are corrected below.

Common Flu Shot Myths

1. Flu Vaccines Contain Poisons & Other Dangerous Chemicals

A flu shot contains a small supply of influenza antigens that stimulate the immune system so it can produce antibodies to fend off the illness. The vaccine has trace amounts of ingredients used to preserve its effectiveness, and there are also a few substances that are a byproduct of the manufacturing process.

Every single component of the flu vaccine has repeatedly been found to be safe and effective. Before receiving the vaccine, however, tell your primary care provider about any allergies in case you are allergic to one of the ingredients.

2. You Only Need to Get the Flu Vaccine Once

The antibodies generated by the flu vaccine do not survive for more than a year. This means that you need to get a flu shot from your primary care provider on an annual basis. One shot per year is sufficient; research has shown that more than one annual flu shot does not make you doubly immune to the flu.

3. The Flu Vaccine Will Make You Sick

It takes up to two weeks after a flu shot for your body to develop the antibodies needed to ward off influenza, so it is entirely possible to contract the flu during this timeframe. Some people report slight redness at the injection site or muscle soreness after the shot, but it usually only lasts a day or two and is a result of the injection process, not the vaccine. The vaccine utilizes an inactive strain of influenza, so it cannot give you the flu. Serious side effects are extremely rare.

When you need a flu shot, visit the primary care providers at Taylor Regional Hospital Walk-In Clinic. Since 1968, they have been serving customers throughout the Campbellsville, KY, area. Their family medicine professionals offer several preventative and urgent care services, including flu shots, physicals, wound care, and cold and sore throat treatment. Call (270) 849-2379 or visit them online to schedule an appointment.