Question:
I'm
POZ and make sure I get my flu shot each year. But I keep hearing different
things about the best time to get the shot. Too early and you might
not be protected when the late flu season hits. Wait too long and you
might get hit by the beginning of the flu season - or worse, not get a shot
at all if the vaccine runs out. What's the best strategy? Second,
how do I explain to my friends who refuse to get a shot each year because
they believe that getting the shot actually gives them the flu?
Answer:
First of all,
you are wise to get the flu shot and since you are POZ be sure to consider
the pneumonia shot (which is given about every 5-6 years).
Secondly, you
have a good question about the timing of the shot. In general here in the
US, the flu starts earlier in the southern states and then moves north. In
general I’d recommend getting the flu shot in Sept/Oct in the southern
US, and Oct/Nov in the upper US. Technically the flu shot can be given even
later in the year though, so if you are late getting it go ahead anyway.
Flu shots tend
to give protection for a few months, but they will wear off. If you have a
question about when to get the shot, just ask your physician (or his/her nurse)
about the recommendations for your area.
As for your
friends, you can reassure them that they cannot get the flu from the shot.
The shot does not contain a live virus. Any shot though can make some people
feel achey and run down for 2-3 days, but that depends on the vaccine. So
far, this year, I haven’t had anyone complain yet of side effects but
there are some years where we get more calls about fatigue or achiness. Just
know that these are side effects and not getting the true flu.
The best strategy is doing what you are doing and get the shot every year. Be well!