5 Common Flu Shot Myths Debunked
January 12, 2026 | Tags:
Every flu season, the importance of getting an annual flu vaccine is widely advised and communicated by doctors, health organizations, insurers and pharmacies. This is because the vaccine can protect you and vulnerable individuals around you from the potentially life-threatening effects of influenza, aka the flu.
Myth: I might get the flu from the flu shot.
Fact: A flu shot cannot and does not cause the flu. Flu vaccines contain an inactive virus and therefore are not infectious. Some may believe they’ve contracted the flu because the common side effects can mirror flu-like symptoms. These include low-grade fever, headache and muscle aches, including skin soreness, swelling, redness or tenderness around the injection area. These potential side effects are a normal reaction from your immune system and only last one to two days.
Myth: I don’t need to get the flu shot every year.
Fact: A flu shot is needed every year because viruses change constantly. The vaccine is formulated specifically to predict which strains of influenza will be most common that year. Small mutations or changes happen overtime in the genes of the influenza virus. Eventually, your immune system has a harder time recognizing and fighting the virus, leaving you more susceptible to becoming infected. Flu shots are highly effective at protecting you from the most common strains that year. If you do contract the virus, receiving the flu shot can considerably decrease your symptoms, leading to a shorter and more manageable sick time, and may prevent other serious medical complications, including hospitalization.
Myth: If I forget to get the flu shot in the fall, it’s too late for the vaccine to be effective for me.
Fact: Though flu season generally starts around October, most cases usually occur in the U.S. between December and February, so getting the vaccine later in the season is still worthwhile. However, it takes about two weeks after the vaccination for antibodies to develop in the body and protect against the flu. That’s why it’s best to get the shot before influenza starts spreading in your community, even if you are in perfect health. But it’s never too late to protect yourself and others. If you’ve missed the “ideal time” for a flu shot, the best time to get one is right now.
Myth: Getting the flu isn’t that serious; it’s just like a bad cold.
Fact: Influenza is a respiratory illness that's highly contagious and can cause severe illness or, in extreme cases, death. There have already been 15 to 26 million flu-related illnesses reported in the U.S. since October 2025.. Vulnerable populations, like infants, pregnant women, older adults and people who are immunocompromised, as well as those with underlying health conditions, like diabetes or asthma, are at risk for serious complications that can result in hospitalization.
Myth: Antibiotics will help cure my flu symptoms.
Fact: Antibiotics don’t fight infections caused by viruses. Taking antibiotics for illnesses, like a cold or the flu, can contribute to antibiotic resistance. This is when bacteria in your body changes to resist antibiotics, making medicine less effective to kill the bacteria or stop its growth. Antibiotic resistance makes infections harder to treat. Antibiotics should only be prescribed by your doctor for a bacterial or fungal infection.
Need More Information?
Medical Mutual recognizes that healthcare decisions are important and personal. Talk to your primary care provider (PCP) about questions or concerns you have regarding the flu shot and how you can protect yourself and others this flu season. Medical Mutual can help you find a PCP. Use our Find a Provider search tool to find an in-network doctor near you or call the Customer Care number listed on your member ID card.