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Flu Shot Myth Busters. Fact: Seasonal influenza vaccination is the most important way to prevent seasonal influenza virus infections http://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/vaccination/vaccine_safety.htm. Myth # 1 : Flu shots increase risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Flu Shot Myth Busters .
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Flu Shot Myth Busters Fact: Seasonal influenza vaccination is the most important way to prevent seasonal influenza virus infections http://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/vaccination/vaccine_safety.htm
Myth # 1: Flu shots increase risk of Alzheimer’s disease
Flu Shot Myth Busters MYTH: Flu shots increase risk of Alzheimer’s disease REALITY: Several studies link flu shots and other vaccinations to a reduced risk of Alzheimer's disease, overall better health, and a reduced risk of death from all causes.
Myth #2: It is too soon to be vaccinated
Flu Shot Myth Busters MYTH: It is too soon to be vaccinated REALITY: Providers should offer as soon as vaccine becomes available (even if distribution is before October). http://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/acip/timing.htm
Myth #3: I cannot get the flu shot because I am allergic to eggs
Flu Shot Myth Busters MYTH: I cannot get the flu shot because I am allergic to eggs REALITY: Those who are able to: • eat lightly cooked egg (e.g., scrambled eggs) • tolerate egg in baked products without a severe reaction (difficulty breathing, swelling of lips/tongue) are unlikely to react to vaccine. Prevention and Control of Influenza with Vaccines: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), 2011
Myth # 4: Washing hands frequently is just as effective as the flu shot prevent the flu
Flu Shot Myth Busters MYTH: Washing hands frequently is just as effective as the flu shot to prevent the flu REALITY: The number one way to prevent getting the flu is to get a flu shot. That way you’re building up your own protection and antibodies.
Myth # 5: The flu shot increases the chances of getting the flu.
Flu Shot Myth Busters MYTH: The flu shot increases the chances of getting the flu REALITY: • The influenza vaccine is made from inactive flu viruses, so it cannot ‘give’ you the flu. • The flu shot triggers an immune response. • Vaccines can have side effects: • Low-grade fever • Muscle aches • Irritated eyes • Soreness at injection site.
Myth 6: The flu vaccine is only for people who are at high risk* *High-risk=elderly, young children, and people with chronic illnesses.
Flu Shot Myth Busters MYTH: The flu vaccine is only for people who are at high risk REALITY: Even young, healthy people can become severely ill with flu. Vaccination is critical to protect not just you, but the people around you.
Myth #7: I got vaccinated last year, so I don't need to get vaccinated this year
Flu Shot Myth Busters MYTH: I got vaccinated last year, so I don't need to get vaccinated this year REALITY: The flu virus strains virus change every year. It is important to get vaccinated every year to help protect yourself.
Myth #8: The flu is just a bad cold
Flu Shot Myth Busters MYTH: The flu is just a bad cold REALITY: Colds do not usually result in serious health problems such as pneumonia, bacterial infections, or hospitalization. No vaccine can prevent a cold.
Myth #9: Stomach flu is a type of influenza
Flu Shot Myth Busters MYTH: Stomach flu is a type of influenza REALITY: The flu is a respiratory infection with symptoms that can affect the entire body and not a stomach or intestinal illness.
Myth #10: Young, healthy people don't need to be vaccinated; the flu is only dangerous for infants and the elderly
Flu Shot Myth Busters MYTH: Young, healthy people don't need to be vaccinated; the flu is only dangerous for infants and the elderly REALITY: • If you get the flu, it can be spread to others even if you don’t feel sick. • By getting vaccinated, you help protect yourself and those around you from getting the flu.
Myth #11: I already got the flu this year, so I won’t bother getting vaccinated because I can't get it again
Flu Shot Myth Busters MYTH: I already got the flu this year, so I won’t bother getting vaccinated because I can't get it again REALITY: • 100s of different types of flu viruses circulate at any given time. • If you get the flu once, you only have protection from that specific type of flu.
Flu Shot Facts • Health care workers who get vaccinated help to reduce the following: • transmission of influenza • staff illness and absenteeism • influenza-related illness and death, especially among people at increased risk for severe influenza illness http://www.cdc.gov/flu/healthcareworkers.htm
What are everyday actions to stop the spread of germs? • • Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. • Throw tissues in the trash after you use them. • • Wash your hands often with soap and water. • If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub. • • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way. • • Avoid close contact with sick people. • • If you are sick with flu-like illness, stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care or for other necessities. • • While sick, limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.