We are continually amazed by the advancement of science and technology in the medical community! The development of vaccines, including the one for influenza, can help us avoid serious illness every year. We are grateful to be able to provide our community with them every day.

The flu shot has been around for over 50 years and is a great resource for preventing sickness in people of all ages. We know that there are misconceptions out there about the flu shot, so our AFC Urgent Care Memphis team lays out the facts below.

Do I Need the Flu Shot if I Have Never Had the Flu?

Yes! Even if you have been proudly flu-free for many years, it certainly doesn’t mean you will be flu-free for the rest of your life. The next time you get sick, your body might have a severe response. You never know how your body will react to illness as you age.

Even if you were to fare OK from the flu, those around you might not be able to as easily. Getting the flu shot helps protect them, too! Any vulnerable adults or young babies in your life could experience a severe flu infection. Getting vaccinated helps keep the flu out of your home to keep them safe.

Potential Flu Complications For Everyone

• Pneumonia
• Serious dehydration
• Inflammation of the heart (myocarditis)
• Multi-organ failure

Can I Avoid Getting the Flu From the Flu Shot?

We have good news for you: The flu shot cannot give you the flu. The vaccine is made up of deactivated flu virus and therefore cannot cause illness. The shot merely is designed to create an immune response in your body so your body learns how to defend against the real thing.

If you do feel unwell for a day or so after the shot, it just means that your body is working hard to create the antibodies you need to ward off the actual virus later. Just relax and let your body do its job for you!

Signs You Contracted the Flu

• Fever or chills
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Body aches
  

It’s not too late to get your flu shot this year! Come see us today at AFC Urgent Care Memphis.