|
The flu shot can help you to avoid nausea, high fevers, chills, aches and pains and extreme tiredness among all the other flu symptoms. However, many people are skeptical and concerned about possible flu shot side effects.
 | You cannot actually get the flu by receiving the
flu vaccine |
You Won’t Get the Flu
You cannot actually get the flu by receiving the flu vaccine. The virus they use in the vaccine is dead and purified. Children who have never had the flu may experience slight symptoms after the shot, but it is not the full fledged flu virus.
Common Light Side Effects
If you do get the flu shot be prepared for swelling and redness around the area where the shot was given. The surrounding area will also be fairly sore for a few days and you might experience muscle aches. You can relieve these symptoms by putting a warm washcloth over the area.
You may also experience a slight fever and headaches. I have found that acetaminophen and ibuprofen help to relieve these side effects quite effectively.
Serious Risk is Small.
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention makes it very clear that the risks of side effects from the flu shot are small.
There is a Risk
A deadly allergic reaction can occur, but again it is stressed that this is extraordinarily rare. Severe allergic reactions to the flu shot include trouble breathing, hoarseness, and wheezing. You may get hives, turn pale, have a rapid heartbeat, feel weak and get dizzy or lightheaded. If you experience any of these symptoms see a doctor immediately.
Do not Have the Flu Shot if…
It is more common to have a flu shot allergy if you are allergic to eggs because the flu vaccines are actually grown in chicken eggs. Also people with Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS), babies younger than 6 months old, people who are already sick with a fever and people who have had reactions to the flu shot in the past should not be vaccinated as serious side effects can occur.
|
