Get your flu shot.
A decade ago, I was struck by a sudden wave of exhaustion that forced me to collapse into bed. My fever soared to 103 degrees, and despite taking Tamiflu, I spent six miserable days on the couch, suffering with a runny nose, cough, and body aches. That year, I opted out of the flu shot.
Fast forward to two years ago when my entire family received the flu vaccine. Over Christmas, we all experienced mild symptoms: body aches, low-grade fevers, and sore throats. My husband tested positive for the flu, but our cases were so mild that I even managed to sew pajama pants for my kids in the midst of it all. We recovered quickly, without complications or lingering fatigue, and my husband, who is prone to bronchitis, avoided any severe issues.
Those flu shots worked!
There’s a wealth of misinformation surrounding the flu vaccine, its effectiveness, and its purpose. In these times, minimizing unnecessary doctor visits is crucial. If you have the chance, get vaccinated.
No, the Flu Vaccine Isn’t Flawless
The effectiveness of the flu vaccine varies each year based on scientists’ predictions about which viral strains will circulate. According to The New York Times, the vaccine’s efficacy fluctuated between a low of 19% and a high of 60% from 2009 to 2019. However, not getting vaccinated means you have no protection. The Mayo Clinic notes that even if you do get a flu shot and still contract the flu, your symptoms are likely to be milder, reducing the risk of complications and hospitalizations during a time when we want to avoid medical facilities.
No, the Flu Vaccine Will Not Make You Sick
As the Mayo Clinic states, “No, the flu vaccine cannot give you the flu.” It’s simply impossible. The flu shot is made from either inactivated (dead) virus or a single protein from the virus. The nasal spray does contain a weakened live virus, but it’s not capable of causing illness.
Many vaccine skeptics, myself included, once believed that a flu shot could lead to the flu. This misconception arises from mild reactions to the vaccine that may mimic flu symptoms. According to the CDC, common reactions include low-grade fever and muscle aches, which are significantly less severe than actual flu symptoms. Additionally, it takes about two weeks for immunity to build up after vaccination, so if you’re exposed to the virus during that window, it might seem like the shot caused your illness—but it didn’t.
Concerns About Big Pharma
In a study published in Social Science Medicine, skepticism about the for-profit medical industry was a major reason people chose not to get vaccinated. Some individuals expressed concerns that vaccines are a way for companies to profit rather than serve public health needs. While it’s true that the flu virus mutates rapidly, requiring annual vaccinations, the manufacturing of vaccines is indeed a business. The Atlantic reports that in 1967, 27 companies made vaccines; by 1980, that number dropped to 17 due to low profits, which can lead to vaccine shortages.
The Cost of the Vaccine
If you have insurance, your flu shot is likely covered. Mine was free at my local pharmacy. Those insured under the Affordable Care Act or Medicare Part B can also get the shot at no cost. Many community health clinics offer free vaccinations, and your workplace or college may provide them as well. If you’re paying out of pocket, expect to spend between $20 and $50, but there are often ways to find free options.
Get Vaccinated Now
This year, scientists warn of a potential “Twindemic.” Last year’s flu season was considered mild, with millions of cases and a significant number of hospitalizations and deaths. As medical facilities face challenges, getting a flu shot becomes not just a personal choice, but a civic responsibility. By getting vaccinated, you’re helping to ease the burden on our healthcare system.
In summary, the flu vaccine is effective, it won’t give you the flu, and while pharmaceutical companies make profits from it, that shouldn’t deter you from getting vaccinated. Your shot could help keep hospital resources available for others in need.
For more information on pregnancy and home insemination, check out this excellent resource from Cleveland Clinic.
If you’re interested in further reading, visit our other blog post here and explore authoritative insights on this subject here.
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Summary:
The flu vaccine is essential for reducing the severity of flu symptoms and preventing complications. Despite common myths, it cannot cause the flu, and it is often covered by insurance or available for free. With healthcare systems under strain, getting vaccinated is a civic duty that benefits everyone.
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