False

"The flu shot can give you the flu."

The flu shot cannot cause the flu. Flu vaccine does not protect you from other viruses that sometimes feel like the flu. If you get the flu or get sick after a flu shot, it is because you were actually exposed to someone with the flu virus prior to receiving the shot.

True

"People can die from the flu."

The flu is a serious disease of the nose, throat and lungs, and it can lead to pneumonia. Each year about 200,000 people in the U.S. are hospitalized and about 36,000 people die because of the flu. Most who die are 65 years and older. But children younger than 2 years old are as likely as those over 65 to have to go to the hospital because of the flu.

True

“Even if I get a flu shot, I can still get a mild case of the flu.”

This can happen, but the flu shot usually protects most people from the flu. However, the flu shot will not protect you from other viruses that can cause illnesses that sometimes feel like the flu.

False

“The side effects of the vaccine are worse than the flu.”

The worst side effect you're likely to get from a flu shot is a sore arm. The risk of a rare allergic reaction is far less than the risk of severe complications from influenza.

TRUE

“Not everyone can take flu vaccine.”

If you are allergic to eggs (used in making the vaccine), are very ill with a high fever, or have had a severe reaction to the flu vaccine in the past, you might not be able to get this protection.

False

“Only older people need flu vaccine.”

Adults and children with conditions like asthma, diabetes, heart disease, and kidney disease need to get a flu shot. Doctors recommend children 6 months through 18 years of age get the vaccination.

False

“You must get a flu vaccine before December.”

The flu shot can be given before or during the flu season. While the best time to get a flu shot is when the vaccine becomes available, a flu shot in December or later will still protect you against the flu.