Every year, millions of people in the US get the flu. It is brought about by the many influenza viruses and some people who get it develop severe and even life-threatening complications. The ones most susceptible are young children, older adults, the immune-compromised, and those with certain medical conditions. According to the CDC, there were about 35.5 million Americans who contracted the virus and 34,000 people have died during the 2018-19 flu season.
The safety of flu shots is often a source of debate and it’s always surrounded by a lot of controversy. However, researchers, doctors, and health groups continue to support and advocate flu vaccines as the safe and single most effective way to prevent the flu.
Safety of Flu Vaccines
Flu vaccines have been in use for more than 5 decades and they have good safety records. Hundreds of millions of individuals of all ages have safely received flu shots.
Flu shots contain inactivated flu viruses. They do not cause flu but what they do instead is activate the immune system to build antibodies which are then stored in the body and used to fight off possible flu infections in the future. This prevents the person from either avoiding the flu completely or should they catch the virus, their symptoms will only be mild. The flu shot may trigger flu symptoms such as nausea and headache but it does not mean the person has the flu.
The ingredients used in flu vaccines work together to ensure safety and effectiveness. The ingredients vary depending on the vaccine but basically, it should have the following:
- Inactivated flu viruses
- Chemicals that enhances the body’s response to the vaccine
- Traces of preservatives
- Stabilizers, like gelatin
- Egg proteins
- Antibiotics to prevent the growth of bacteria
Egg Allergy from the Flu Vaccine?
Most flu vaccines have trace amounts of egg protein. But there are also those that do not have egg protein and they are available to those with severe allergies to eggs. You should inform your doctor of any allergies before getting vaccinated.
Allergy experts agree that individuals with egg allergies are likely not going to experience a severe reaction when getting a flu shot. However they do need to be under the supervision of a medical practitioner when getting the vaccine.
Pregnancy and Flu Shot
Pregnant women can get the flu shot any time during pregnancy. The vaccine is safe and highly recommended if you are pregnant to protect both you and your unborn child. Pregnant women who get sick with flu are more likely to develop serious complications due to putting more strain on their heart, immune system and lungs.
Do Flu Shots Cause Autism?
According to the CDC, there is no link between vaccination and autism. A lot of myths surround flu shots and vaccinations in general. One such notion implies that vaccines weaken the body’s immunity and contain unsafe substances. There are no scientific evidence to support these claims.
Can Everyone Get the Flu Vaccine?
Not everyone can get the flu vaccine. Although it is recommended for anyone who is at least 6 months old, you may need to consult your doctor if you have any of the following:
- Guillain-Barre syndrome – a nerve condition that causes paralysis.
- Allergies – if you have had severe allergic reactions to vaccines before, you need to inform your doctor before getting vaccinated.
Experts agree that getting the flu vaccine is the most effective way to reduce severity and cases of the virus. It prevents serious complications, hospitalizations, and even deaths. In fact, the vaccine saved more than 40,000 lives in the United States from 2005 to 2014.