Every year, the flu enters schools, workplaces, and households. And every year, the same flu shot myths pop up again. These misconceptions stop many people from getting vaccinated, leaving themselves and others at risk. Let’s set the record straight by debunking flu vaccine myths and explaining why the flu vaccine matters, who should get it, and how you can protect your family and community this cold season.
Flu Vaccine Myths Debunked
“I don’t need it if I’m healthy.”
It’s true that healthy people may recover from the flu faster than those with chronic conditions, but that doesn’t mean you should skip the vaccine. Even if your symptoms are mild, you can still spread the virus to others who may become seriously ill. The flu shot protects you and the people around you. This is one of the most important points in our effort to debunk flu vaccine myths.
“The flu shot gives you the flu.”
This is one of the most common myths. The flu shot does not contain live influenza virus. It can’t cause the flu. Some people experience mild side effects like a sore arm, fatigue, or a low-grade fever, but these are short-lived and far less serious than the flu itself.
“Only seniors need the flu shot.”
Older adults are at higher risk of complications, but they’re not the only group who benefit from vaccination. Children, pregnant people, caregivers, and individuals with ongoing health issues such as asthma or diabetes are strongly advised to get the flu shot. In fact, anyone over the age of six months can and should consider vaccination.
Who Should Get the Flu Vaccine?
The flu shot is recommended for:
- Seniors: Higher risk of hospitalization and complications.
- Children: Their immune systems are still developing, and they spread flu easily.
- Pregnant individuals: The vaccine protects both parent and baby.
- People with chronic conditions: Asthma, diabetes, heart disease, and other conditions increase risk of severe flu.
- Caregivers and healthcare workers: Protect the people you care for.
- Everyone else: Even healthy adults have a part to play in reducing community spread.
The more people vaccinated, the harder it is for the flu to move through a community. This is why understanding these flu vaccine myths is so important.
Why It Matters
The flu vaccine is one of the simplest ways to reduce the impact of flu season. It keeps kids in school, adults at work, and vulnerable people out of the hospital. By addressing these flu vaccine myths, we hope to encourage more people to get vaccinated and protect their communities this cold season.
Our staff always goes the extra mile to ensure you feel comfortable and informed about your health decisions. Book your flu shot today at Sunshine Drugs Pharmacy! Visit us online or stop by one of our 20 locations to prepare for flu season. Our pharmacy team is here to answer your questions and help you stay healthy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the flu shot actually give you the flu?
No. The vaccine contains an inactivated virus or a tiny part of the virus that cannot cause illness. Side effects like muscle aches or a mild fever are your immune system preparing to fight off an infection.
How often do I need the flu vaccine?
Once a year. The influenza virus changes regularly, so the vaccine is updated annually to match the strains most likely to circulate.
Is the flu vaccine safe if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?
Yes. Health Canada and the Public Health Agency of Canada recommend flu vaccination during pregnancy. It protects both the pregnant individual and the newborn, who cannot be vaccinated until six months of age. However, it is always advisable to consult your healthcare provider before making any medical decisions during pregnancy.
Do healthy people really need a flu shot?
Yes. Even if you recover quickly, you can pass the flu to someone more vulnerable. The flu shot is an act of community care.
References
Government of Canada. (2025, January 20). Flu (influenza): Get the flu shot. Retrieved from https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/flu-influenza/get-your-flu-shot.html
Public Health Agency of Canada. (2023, December 18). Updated guidance on influenza vaccination during pregnancy. Retrieved from https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/publications/vaccines-immunization/national-advisory-committee-immunization-updated-guidance-influenza-vaccination-during-pregnancy.html
World Health Organization. (2025, February 28). Influenza (seasonal). Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/influenza-(seasonal)