Identify common flu vaccine side effects and how to treat them
Although the flu vaccine is protective, some people may experience side effects. Fortunately, the effects are usually mild and disappear within a few days. Knowing about possible side effects beforehand can help you cope with them.
Why get the flu vaccine?
Flu season typically runs from September to February. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) encourages everyone 6 months and older, with very few exceptions, to get an annual flu vaccine, ideally by the end of October. The CDC also recommends that vaccinations should continue as long as the flu virus is circulating, even in January or later [1].
There are many important reasons why you should get your flu vaccine as soon as possible. Getting a flu shot offers a number of benefits to you and those around you:
It is protective. If you think the flu isn’t serious, think again. CDC estimates 22,000 Americans died from flu and its complications during 2019-2020 flu season [2].
Getting a flu vaccine helps protect you and others from illness and flu-related death. It prevents most people from getting the flu, but some people still get sick. People who get the flu vaccine but still get the flu usually have milder symptoms.
This works. The flu shot is the first and best way to reduce your chances of getting the flu and spreading it to others. By getting a yearly flu shot, you’re up to 60% less likely to need flu treatment, research shows [2]. If you are still on the sidelines, you can learn more about Why You Should Get the Flu Vaccine to help you decide.When you’re ready to get vaccinated, you can use our Member Flu Shot Resource Guide to complete the next steps.
Common flu vaccine side effects
The CDC lists these common side effects of the flu vaccine [1]:
- arm painsoreness, redness and/or swelling after injection
- Headache
- fever
- nausea
- Muscle pain
Preventing Flu Shot Side Effects
You may feel some discomfort after your flu shot, but there are things you can do before and after your shot to reduce pain.
Before shooting:
- Take 3-5 deep breaths. This will help relax your muscles, including those in your arms.
- Distract yourself. Chew sugar-free gum. This releases feel-good chemicals called endorphins, which can reduce your perception of pain.
- relax. If you’re afraid of needles, look away. Tell the healthcare provider that you do not want to know when he or she is about to give the injection.
- Make smart choices. ask to be filmed in your footage non-dominant arm。 This way your main arm won’t hurt while you go about your daily activities.
After shooting:
- put pressure on. Compression can help reduce inflammation.
- Use cold and hot compresses. Apply ice to the area to reduce swelling. After a few days, try a warm compress to relax the arm muscles and improve blood flow.
- Use pain relievers. After the injection, take acetaminophen or ibuprofen if pain occurs within a few days of the injection.
- keep moving. Use your arms, don’t stay still. You want blood flow to the area.
Don’t let fear or lack of information stop you from getting your flu shot. If you have any questions, please consult your doctor. He or she can solve any problems you have. You can also talk to your doctor if you need help managing side effects. Call your doctor or seek medical attention if you develop more serious complications such as high fever, wheezing, hives, or weakness.
refer to
[1] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Flu vaccine safety information. Last reviewed: September 17, 2019. Accessed October 1, 2021. https://www.cdc.gov/flu/prevent/general.htm
