Why Getting Your Flu Shot Matters (and Common Myths Debunked)

At Freeman Medical Clinic, we know that flu season is never convenient. Between busy schedules, family responsibilities, and everything else life brings, it can be tempting to put off your flu shot—or skip it altogether. But here’s the truth: the flu vaccine remains one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your community.

Why the Flu Shot Is Important

• Reduces Risk of Illness: While no vaccine is 100% perfect, the flu shot significantly lowers your chances of getting the flu, and if you do catch it, your symptoms are likely to be milder.

• Protects Vulnerable Populations: Infants, older adults, pregnant women, and people with chronic conditions are at higher risk of severe complications. Your vaccination helps shield them, too.

• Prevents Complications & Hospitalizations: The flu can trigger pneumonia, worsen chronic diseases (like asthma, COPD, or diabetes), and even lead to hospitalization.

Think of it not just as protecting yourself, but also as doing your part to protect the people around you.

Common Flu Shot Myths—Debunked

Myth 1: The flu shot can give you the flu.

Truth: The flu vaccine does not contain live flu virus, so it cannot cause the flu. Some people experience mild side effects—like soreness at the injection site, a low-grade fever, or body aches—but these are short-lived and far less severe than the flu itself.

Myth 2: Healthy people don’t need the flu shot.

Truth: Even if you’re young and healthy, you can still catch the flu and pass it on to others. Many healthy individuals unknowingly spread the virus to vulnerable people around them. Vaccination reduces that risk.

Myth 3: I don’t need the shot if I got it last year.

Truth: Flu viruses change from year to year. The vaccine is updated annually to target the strains most likely to circulate that season. That’s why you need a new shot every year.

Myth 4: The flu isn’t a big deal.

Truth: The flu is more than “just a bad cold.” It can cause weeks of illness, missed work or school, and in severe cases, hospitalization or even death. Each year, thousands of Americans die from flu-related complications.

Final Thoughts

Getting your flu shot is a quick, safe, and effective way to keep yourself—and your community—healthier this season. At Freeman Medical Clinic, we make it simple and convenient to get vaccinated.

Protect yourself. Protect your loved ones. Protect your community.

Schedule your flu shot with Freeman Medical Clinic today.