A doctor busts 3 flu vaccine myths
Thanks to technology, you have information at the palm of your hands to help you learn about your health. However, everything you see online isn’t necessarily medically accurate.
The flu vaccine, in particular, has racked up many myths since it went public in 1945.
To help set the record straight, Dr. Richard Poirier, an internal medicine physician at Aurora BayCare Medical Center, busts three common myths:
Myth 1: It’s not that serious of an illness.
Fact: The highly contagious respiratory disease can cause mild to severe illness depending on the person. In some cases, it can even be life threatening.
Myth 2: If you received the flu vaccine in previous years, you don’t need to get vaccinated again.
Fact: You need the flu vaccine every year to get the most effective protection against the flu. To ensure that the vaccine prevents the newest version of the virus, scientist update the vaccine annually. Also, your immunity decreases over time which is why it’s so important to get the shot ahead of each flu season.
Myth 3: The flu vaccine replaces the need for a COVID vaccine.
Fact: It’s important to receive both vaccines to prevent each respiratory disease. Both vaccines are safe and effective. The benefits of each vaccine far outweigh any risks.
To protect yourself and your loved ones from respiratory illness, follow these precautions:
- Get vaccinated for both flu and COVID
- Protect yourself from germs by staying home if you or others are sick
- Practice proper handwashing
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About the Author
Anna Kohler, health enews contributor, is an external communications specialist for Advocate Health Care and Aurora Health Care. She received her bachelor's degree in public relations from Illinois State University and has worked in health care public relations and content marketing for over five years. In her free time, she enjoys working out, exploring new places with her friends and family, and keeping up with the latest social media trends.
