Complete Guide to Flu Vaccines

Things to consider

Everyone who is 6 months and older should get a flu vaccine every flu season. Getting a flu vaccine along with another vaccine at the same visit is recommended if you are eligible and if the timing for each vaccine is right. Vaccines can prevent you from getting sick and lower the chance of serious illness if you do get sick. It can also lower the risk of having to be hospitalized from the flu.

The flu shot cannot give you the flu. However, sometimes there are some side effects to the flu shot. They are usually very mild. The most common side effects are:

• Soreness, redness and/or swelling where the shot was given
• Headache
• Fever
• Nausea
• Muscle aches and fatigue

These side effects will usually go away on their own after a few days. If they do not, talk to your doctor.

People who have severe, life-threatening allergies to ingredients in flu shots should not get one. This might include gelatin or antibiotics. If you have had a strong allergic reaction to a flu shot in the past, talk with your doctor before getting another shot.

For pregnant women, the flu vaccine can help protect both you and your baby and can keep them from getting sick in the first few months after they are born. Flu shots can also lower the risk of severe, life-threatening flu in children by 75%.

Getting a flu vaccine can also protect people around you who are more likely to get sick, like babies, young children, and older people with existing medical conditions. If you do have an existing health condition, please talk to your doctor before getting a flu shot.

Questions to ask your doctor

• Do I need to get a flu vaccine?
• Which flu vaccine is right for me?
• How old do my children have to be before they can get a flu vaccine?
• Are there any risks involved with a flu vaccine?
• What are the side effects of getting a flu vaccine?
• Why do I need a flu vaccine every year?
• When should I get my flu vaccine?

Resources

The Centers for Disease Control: Seasonal Flu Vaccines

Disease Burden of Flu | CDC

Vaccines.gov: Find Flu Vaccines

This content is supported by an unrestricted grant from AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals LP.