The Flu Shot – Addressing Common Misconceptions

Protect yourself and your loved ones by getting vaccinated against the Flu.

Cool weather has arrived which means it's time to reinforce our protection against respiratory illnesses – specifically the flu and COVID-19. Vaccination remains the most effective way to reduce the need for emergency care and hospitalization. People over 65, young children, pregnant individuals, and those with chronic health conditions are at highest risk, but anyone can catch and spread these viruses.

There are two common misconceptions about the flu shot: First, some believe flu vaccines don’t work because they still got sick after vaccination. Second, many think waiting until later in the season provides better protection.

Here’s the truth: our immune system has several defenses, with mucus and antibodies playing a key role. Mucus traps viruses, while antibodies—proteins in our blood, saliva, and mucus—destroy them. If exposed to a viral infection, whether we get sick depends on the strength of our immune system and how many viral particles (the “infectious dose”) we encounter.

Vaccination works because it improves our ability to fight off the virus by increasing our flu antibodies. This means that it will take a much larger amount of virus exposure in order for us to get ill. And, if we do get the virus, we will get a milder form with fewer symptoms.

Every year, the flu virus changes slightly through small mutations, altering the proteins on its surface. These proteins help the virus infect our cells and are the primary target for the flu vaccine and antibodies. The flu vaccine is updated annually to target the most likely strains, specifically H1N1, H3N2, and influenza B. While the match between the vaccine and circulating strains may not be perfect every year, the flu shot still provides crucial protection by reducing the severity of illness.

The goal of the flu vaccine isn’t necessarily to prevent all cases, but to reduce the risk of severe illness and death. Last season, over 44,900 people in the U.S. died from flu-related complications. People who are vaccinated are far less likely to die or require intensive care.

The time to get your flu shot is now. Flu hospitalizations and deaths usually peak between October and February. Waiting until later in the season for a better vaccine match leaves you vulnerable during the months when you need protection most. Even if the match isn’t perfect, getting vaccinated early can still dramatically lower your risk.

Here are a couple of simple steps to safeguard yourself and your loved ones this winter:

• Get your flu and COVID-19 vaccines as soon as possible.
• Keep your immune system strong with a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables, regular exercise (at least 150 minutes per week), and sufficient sleep (about 8 hours nightly).
• Wash your hands regularly

Don’t wait. Reduce your risk of serious illness and help protect others in your community by getting vaccinated today.