Influenza Can Be Deadly
In 1918, about 500,000 Americans died in an influenza (flu) epidemic. The epidemic was the worst outbreak in history. Even today, the flu can still be deadly because it attacks your nose, throat, bronchial tubes and lungs, which can lead to bronchitis and pneumonia. Flu season is just around the corner. Read these myths to see if you know how to protect yourself from this potentially dangerous virus.
Myth 1: The flu is dangerous only to the elderly.
While the flu is especially dangerous to older adults, it is even more dangerous to those who have diabetes, chronic illness, or a weak immune system. You’re also at higher risk if you live in a nursing home.
Myth 2: The flu shot can cause the flu.
Not true! The flu shot is your best weapon against the flu. The vaccine is made from an inactivated form of the virus, so it can’t give you the flu. The Centers for Disease Control recommends that people over age 50 get the flu shot every year. But if you are allergic to eggs, you probably should not get the shot because the vaccine is grown in chicken eggs. Ask for your doctor’s advice to be sure.
Myth 3: You don’t need a flu shot every year.
You do need to get a flu shot every year. The flu virus changes from year to year, so the flu shot you got last year will not protect you this year.
Myth 4: After November, it’s too late to get the flu shot.
While it’s true that the best time to get the shot is between mid-October and mid-November, the flu virus can be spread as late as May. As long as you get the shot one to two weeks before you’re exposed to the virus, the shot can be effective. Even if you get the shot after being exposed to the virus, there’s still a chance that the shot can make the symptoms you feel less severe.
Myth 5: Flu and pneumonia shots are the same.
As we’ve mentioned, you must receive a flu shot every flu season. The pneumonia shot is a different shot; it can be given any time during the year. Some people need only one pneumonia shot in a lifetime, but if you are at high risk for pneumonia, you may need another shot several years later. Talk to your doctor about what’s best for you.
Myth 6: As long as I don’t eat or drink after someone who has the flu, I won’t get it.
The flu is very contagious. In fact, if someone who has the virus coughs or sneezes near you, the virus can be spread to you through the air you breathe. The flu spreads quickly in places where a lot of people gather. Remember, the more people who get the flu shot, the less likely the flu is to spread in crowds. To help protect yourself, wash your hands often and take care of yourself by getting plenty of sleep and eating healthy foods.