Can the Flu Shot Make Me Sick?

December 1, 2022

Don’t listen to all of the myths out there about the flu shot! There is a lot of misinformation circulating about the flu shot, including the common misconception that the flu vaccine could give you the flu.

The flu vaccine is very effective in preventing serious illness and reducing your risk of developing complications due to the virus. That is why we recommend that everyone come see us at AFC Urgent Care Knoxville for your annual flu shot!

What’s in the Flu Shot?

The vaccine contains deactivated versions of the flu virus. These bits of virus are intended to stimulate an antibody response similar to when you contract the actual flu. Since they are not live versions, the shot does not give you the flu.

That said, you may feel run down for a day or two after you get the vaccine as your body has an immune response to the shot. This is normal! There is also the chance that you will contract the actual flu virus while you are waiting the two weeks for your shot to fully take effect.

Why You Need the Flu Shot This Year

It reduces your risk of death due to the flu.
It can reduce the number of days you are sick if you do get the flu.
The shot changes each year to tailor to the most common strain.
The shot helps reduce hospitalization.

Will I Get Really Sick if I Don’t Get Vaccinated?

There is no guarantee that you will or won’t experience serious complications from the flu. In some cases, your body may trigger an extreme inflammatory response in your heart, brain or muscle tissues, which could lead to multi-organ failure or sepsis.

Thankfully, the majority of flu cases don’t get to that point, but a flu shot can help reduce your risk! Getting vaccinated protects you as well as your more vulnerable family and friends. Do your part to keep you and your loved ones healthy this year.