There are many myths about the flu shot. Here are some facts to set the record straight!

Fact #1: The flu and its complications are the LEADING CAUSE of HOSPITALIZATION & DEATH in Canada from an infectious disease.

This is true because it attacks and weakens the elderly and the ill. It is stimated that 10% to 25% of Canadians may get the flu every year and up to 8,000 people will die from it during a season.

Fact #2: The flu vaccine is safe. It CANNOT give you the flu because it does not contain live virus.

A new flu vaccine is made each year to fight the expected viruses for the coming season. When there is a good match between the vaccine the the strain of flu that is circulating, the flu shot provides protection for up to 90% of people who get a flu vaccination. For others who get the vaccine, it can reduce the severity of illness and them get back to work faster.

Fact #3: A yearly flu shot is the BEST PROTECTION against the flu

When there is a good match between the vaccination and the flu strain, the flu shot protects up to 90% of those who get the flu shot. A different strain of the flu may be circulating each year, that's why last year's shot does not protect you against this year's flu. You need a flu shot each year for protection

Fact #4: Most people have NO OR MILD side effects from the flu vaccine.

Side effects from the flu vaccine are none or are mild. Some people may have some swelling or pain where the shot was given, a low fever, or feel tired for one or two days after the vaccine.

Fact #5: The flu shot DOES NOT CAUSE Alzheimer's Disease.

There is no evidence that the flu vaccine causes Alzheimer’s disease. The flu vaccine does not contain aluminum. The shot does contain 25 micrograms of mercury which is less than the amount of mercury found in once can of tuna fish, and well within the safe daily intake level.

Fact #6: The flu shot DOES NOT weaken your body to fight off other infections.

The flu vaccine helps your body build up MORE protection against the virus strain in the vaccine.  It does not weaken your ability to fight the flu or other infections.