Common Misconceptions About the Flu Vaccine

There are several myths circulating in society regarding the flu vaccine, which can lead to misinformation among the public.

Here are some common misconceptions about the flu vaccine:

False: Every time I get the flu vaccine, I get sick!

True: The flu vaccine contains killed or weakened viruses. Therefore, the flu vaccine does not cause the flu. Side effects that may develop after vaccination, such as nausea, fever, or muscle pain, are normal responses from the immune system to the vaccine. Additionally, the flu vaccine only provides protection against the influenza virus; it does not protect against other viral infections, such as the common cold.

False: Whenever I get the flu vaccine, I get the flu that year!

True: The flu vaccine reduces the risk of contracting the influenza virus by approximately 60%, but it does not eliminate the risk entirely. Even if vaccinated individuals do contract the flu, the severity and duration of the illness caused by the virus are much less. The influenza virus can also cause pneumonia, bronchitis, or other respiratory infections. Vaccination can help protect against these infections.

False: Getting a flu vaccine every year is unnecessary!

True: The flu vaccine is a seasonal vaccine. This is because the strain of the influenza virus that causes the flu may change each year. Consequently, the strains of the flu vaccine are updated annually by the World Health Organization (WHO) before the flu season. For the 2025-2026 season, the WHO’s recommendations for cell culture, recombinant protein, or nucleic acid-based vaccines to be used in the northern hemisphere during the flu season include the following strains:

– A/Wisconsin/67/2022 (H1N1)pdm09-like virus

– A/District of Columbia/27/2023 (H3N2)-like virus

– B/Austria/1359417/2021 (B/Victoria lineage)-like virus

Flu vaccines from previous years may not be effective against the viruses of the upcoming year, which is why it is important to get vaccinated every year. Therefore, the seasonal flu vaccine should be renewed annually.

False: The flu vaccine is only necessary for the elderly and those with chronic illnesses!

True: The flu vaccine is recommended for everyone over the age of 6 months. In addition, it is recommended for the elderly, pregnant individuals, those with chronic illnesses, and people with weakened immune systems, as well as those who work in crowded environments, frequent travelers, and those with at-risk relatives at home.

False: The flu vaccine can be dangerous for children!

True: The flu vaccine is considered safe and is recommended for children over 6 months of age by many health organizations, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). It is especially recommended for children with chronic illnesses or those at risk for other diseases, as flu vaccinations help protect against serious complications from influenza infection.

False: Flu vaccines contain harmful chemicals or preservatives!

True: There are thousands of scientific studies showing that flu vaccines are safe. Vaccine safety is continuously monitored and regulated by health organizations and academic institutions.

These myths can contribute to the spread of misinformation regarding the side effects, efficacy, and necessity of the flu vaccine. It is important to consult health professionals for the most up-to-date and accurate information about the flu vaccine.