Questions About Flu
Is the Flu Like a Bad Cold?No. Influenza is a major illness. Every year many older people with other health problems do not recover from the flu. Influenza is the 4th leading killer of older people in the U.S.
Is The Flu Contagious?Yes. Influenza is highly contagious. You are most likely to give it to others before you know you are sick.
Does The Flu Shot Work?Yes. The flu shot is very effective. It does not protect you from a cold, but it does protect you from influenza.
Can You Get A Bad Reaction Or Even Get The Flu From The Flu Shot?The vaccine (shot) is safe. It has been given to millions of people without problems. It is not possible to get influenza from the flu shot. However, some people may get a sore arm.
Does The Flu Shot Interfere With Other Medicines Or Make Other Illnesses Worse?No. The flu shot does not make your other medicines stop working, nor does it make your current illnesses worse.
Do Doctors Recommend Flu Shots?Yes. If you are 65 years old or older or if you have other medical conditions (such as heart disease, lung disease or diabetes) your doctor and the U.S. Public Health Service strongly recommend that you get a flu shot every Fall. Medicare pays for flu shots.
To learn more about the flu, visit Facts About Flu.
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