With the COVID-19 pandemic still top of mind for most of us, influenza may seem like a minor nuisance. However, flu can be a deadly disease, leading to serious complications, hospitalizations, and in the worst cases, death. The flu vaccine remains an integral part of public health and is the first line of defense against contracting the flu.

It is worth stressing that while the flu vaccine will not protect you from coronavirus, it is still an excellent idea for most people aged six months and up. Doing so greatly reduces your chances of getting the seasonal flu. Even in cases where the illness is contracted after vaccination, the shot decreased the chances of severe symptoms

The Centers for Disease Control, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, and the Healthcare Infection Control Practices Advisory Committee already recommend that all U.S. health care workers get vaccinated annually against influenza. This year, many more organizations have joined healthcare providers in requiring employees to be vaccinated against the flu, including universities. Requirements will vary state-to-state, but businesses across the nation are expected to begin requiring the flu shot for all employees. 

Some important facts to keep in mind:

• Much like COVID-19, influenza is spread mainly by droplets made by coughing, sneezing, or talking. 

• It may also be spread by touching a surface that has flu virus on it, and then touching the mouth or nose. This is less likely, but it does occur.

• A person can spread the flu before symptoms begin. Symptoms begin one to four days after the virus enters the body, but a person is contagious on day one.

• Annual vaccination is recommended because flu viruses mutate from year-to-year, and immunity declines over time.

• Ideally, you should get vaccinated before “flu season” starts, usually by the end of October. A later vaccination is still beneficial, however. In fact, getting vaccinated by Thanksgiving should be a goal for everyone at risk.[1] This is particularly true this year, as we come out of a pandemic and begin gathering with family and friends again.

According to the CDC, the seasonal flu vaccine protects against the strains of influenza that research indicates will be most common during a flu season. The flu vaccine itself cannot cause you to get flu, as they are developed with killed or weakened viruses. Mild side effects can occur, such as soreness at the injection site, and are usually gone within two days. 

Serious problems from flu shots are very rare, but with so many required to be given this year, some injuries are inevitable. A small number of people may suffer unpredictable and rare negative reactions. In such cases, it is important to be aware of your legal rights and how to apply them effectively. Relief for vaccine injury is available through the federal government, but applying for the relief can be a daunting and complicated task. At Black McLaren Jones Ryland & Griffee, P.C., we have over 60 years of combined experience in vaccine law and are here to help in the event of an unfortunate flu vaccine injury. To learn more, or to set up a free consultation, please give us a call at (615) 815-1508. 

If you are uncertain about receiving the flu vaccine, it is best to discuss those concerns with your physician to get a professional opinion about what is best for you.