Flu vaccine myths and misconceptions can leave people uncertain about when to get vaccinated, how influenza spreads and what to do if they become infected. CVS Pharmacy is highlighting six common misunderstandings about the flu and vaccination, with guidance from its pharmacists to help people make informed decisions during flu season.
The explanations cover vaccination timing, possible side effects, repeat infections, the role of antibiotics and how flu viruses spread.
Six common flu vaccine myths and the facts behind them
Myth 1: You should wait until flu season reaches its peak before getting vaccinated
Fact: Getting vaccinated before flu activity increases is preferable.
Flu activity typically reaches its highest levels between December and February. According to the guidance provided by CVS Pharmacy, people older than six months, with certain exceptions, should ideally receive their flu vaccination by the end of October.
However, missing that target does not mean vaccination is no longer worthwhile. People who have not received their shot in October can still benefit from getting vaccinated in November or later, particularly while flu viruses continue to circulate.
The body generally takes about two weeks after vaccination to develop optimal protection. Getting vaccinated before widespread community transmission therefore provides an opportunity to build protection ahead of peak flu activity.
Myth 2: The flu shot can give you influenza
Fact: Flu shots do not cause influenza.
Injectable flu vaccines are made using either inactivated influenza viruses or proteins derived from the virus. These components cannot cause influenza infection.
Some people may experience temporary side effects after vaccination. These can include:
- Soreness, redness, tenderness or swelling at the injection site.
- Headache.
- Fever.
- Nausea.
- Muscle aches.
- Fatigue.
Such reactions may appear soon after vaccination and generally resolve without treatment within a few days. Serious allergic reactions to flu vaccines are very rare.
Myth 3: It is too late to get vaccinated once flu season has started
Fact: Vaccination can still be beneficial while flu viruses are circulating.
Although vaccination before the flu season is preferable, the start of flu activity does not automatically make the vaccine ineffective or unnecessary.
Flu activity generally peaks between December and February, and the body needs approximately two weeks to develop optimal protection following vaccination. Those who have not yet received their shot should therefore consider doing so even after the season has begun.
Myth 4: Having the flu once means you cannot catch it again that season
Fact: A previous infection does not rule out another bout of influenza.
Different influenza strains can circulate during the same flu season. Consequently, recovering from one flu infection does not guarantee protection against every other strain that may be circulating.
CVS Pharmacy advises people who have already had influenza during the season to still prioritise vaccination. A previous infection should not be treated as a substitute for a flu shot.
Myth 5: Antibiotics can treat influenza
Fact: Antibiotics are not effective against influenza viruses.
Antibiotics are medicines used to treat bacterial infections. Because influenza is caused by a virus, these medicines do not directly treat the infection.
Certain antiviral medicines can be prescribed to treat influenza. People who develop flu symptoms and have questions about treatment should consult a doctor or other healthcare provider about appropriate options.
Myth 6: Influenza spreads only through coughing and sneezing
Fact: Flu viruses can spread in several ways.
Most experts believe influenza viruses are primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets released when an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks.
Transmission can also occur when someone touches a surface or object contaminated with the virus and subsequently touches their mouth, nose or eyes.
Regular hand hygiene can help reduce this risk. CVS Pharmacy recommends washing hands frequently with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand cleanser.
How to arrange a flu vaccination through CVS Pharmacy
CVS Pharmacy offers online scheduling for flu vaccination appointments through CVS.com and the CVS Health app.
According to the company, appointments are available on days when participating local CVS Pharmacy locations or MinuteClinic facilities are open, including evenings and weekends.
People who have questions about flu vaccination can also speak with a pharmacist at their local CVS Pharmacy. Pharmacists can provide information about common vaccine misconceptions and help customers understand their vaccination options.
Understanding how influenza spreads, what vaccination can and cannot do, and which treatments are appropriate can help people make better-informed decisions during flu season.
