Winter is coming, and so is the flu – MercyOne

By: Joseph Martz, MD, MercyOne Clinton Family Medicine

Throughout my years in family medicine, when it comes to the flu, I have heard it all. And it seems like there is no shortage of misinformation and misunderstanding. So, lets dispel some of these misconceptions so we can all have a safe and healthy season.

Myth: You can catch influenza from the flu vaccine.

Thats totally false. Modern flu vaccines do not have any flu-like properties in them so it is impossible to catch the virus from them. It is common to feel ill after getting the vaccine but that doesnt mean you contracted the flu. Its just your body responding to the vaccine and creating its natural immunities and thats good. There are some intranasal preparations of flu vaccine which do contain the live virus, however all injectable forms of the flu vaccination do not contain a live virus and cannot cause infection.

Myth: Getting the flu vaccination is all you need to do to protect yourself from influenza.

Although getting the flu vaccine is the most important thing you can do to protect yourself against the flu, there are also other methods you can use in combination with the vaccine to protect yourself and others around you. You can use good hygiene and wash your hands thoroughly and regularly. Using hand sanitizer also helps and covering your mouth when you are sneezing. Actively using your face mask is also a great way to not only decrease your chances of catching the flu but also preventing you from spreading the flu virus to your family and friends.

Myth: The flu is just a bad cold.

Anyone that has had the flu can tell you this is not the case. Influenza is fundamentally different from the cold, the symptoms can be similar, but it is more severe for certain people. Its much more serious than the cold and should be taken much more seriously.

Myth: You don't need to get a flu shot every year.

Its important to get the flu vaccine every year because every year the vaccine is different. Each year professionals develop advancements in the flu vaccine. They use data gathered from previous years and use their research to accurately predict the possible strain of flu that could be prevalent during flu season the following year. With each year and new information available, they enhance the flu vaccine giving you the best chance to protect yourself.

Myth:Healthy people don't need to be vaccinated.

Although there is a much lower risk of getting a severe reaction from the flu if you are healthy, remember that its your job to protect your family, friends, neighbors and people around you. Because of that, they are at a much lower risk of getting the flu.

Myth: Vitamin C cures the influenza.

There is no evidence to support that consumption of vitamin C will cure the influenza. The best way to protect yourself is to get the vaccines, use good hygiene and wash your hands thoroughly and regularly. Using hand sanitizer also helps and covering your mouth when you are sneezing. Actively use your face mask. You should also maintain your hydration and contact your health care provider if you start experiencing flu like symptoms or your symptoms get worse.

Dr. Joseph Martz is a board-certified family medicine provider at MercyOne Clinton North Health Plaza and you can contact 563-243-2511 to schedule an appointment.

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Winter is coming, and so is the flu - MercyOne