Flu Shot FAQs: When to Get It, Side Effects & Effectiveness

Each year, the flu affects millions of people across the United States. Getting a flu shot is one of the best ways to protect yourself and your loved ones. At Central Pharmacy, we offer convenient and professional flu vaccinations to help keep our community healthy.

In this blog post, we answer the most common questions about the flu shot, including when to get it, what side effects to expect, and how effective it is. Read on to learn everything you need to know before getting vaccinated.

What Is the Flu Shot?

The flu shot is a vaccine that helps protect against the influenza virus, commonly known as the flu. It works by introducing a small, inactive piece of the virus to your immune system so it can recognize and fight off the real virus later on.

Flu shots are updated each year to protect against the most common strains predicted for that season.

Why Should You Get a Flu Shot?

Protect Yourself

The flu can cause serious illness, especially in older adults, young children, and people with certain health conditions. Getting vaccinated can significantly reduce your risk of getting sick.

Protect Others

Vaccination helps prevent the spread of the virus to those who may be more vulnerable, such as infants, elderly family members, or those with weakened immune systems.

Avoid Missed Work or School

Getting the flu can lead to several days of missed work or school. A flu shot helps you stay productive and on schedule.

Reduce Healthcare Visits

Flu-related complications can lead to doctor visits, hospitalizations, and even emergency care. A flu shot reduces the risk of complications and medical costs.

When Should You Get a Flu Shot?

The best time to get your flu shot is in early fall, ideally between September and October.

It takes about two weeks after the shot for your body to build immunity. Getting vaccinated before flu season begins ensures you're protected when the virus starts to spread.

However, it’s never too late to get vaccinated. You can still benefit from the flu shot well into the winter and even spring months.

Who Should Get the Flu Shot?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone aged 6 months and older receive a flu shot each year, with rare exceptions.

People Especially Encouraged to Get the Flu Shot:

• Adults aged 65 and older

• Young children, especially under age 5

• Pregnant women

• People with chronic conditions like asthma, diabetes, or heart disease

• Healthcare and essential workers

• Caregivers and those living with high-risk individuals

If you have concerns about whether the flu shot is right for you, talk to your healthcare provider or ask a pharmacist at Central Pharmacy.

Are There Any Side Effects?

Most people experience mild or no side effects after receiving a flu shot. If side effects occur, they usually go away within 1–2 days.

Common Side Effects:

• Soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site

• Mild fever

• Fatigue

• Muscle aches

These are signs your body is building protection. Serious side effects are extremely rare. If you have a history of severe allergic reactions to vaccines, consult your doctor first.

How Effective Is the Flu Shot?

The effectiveness of the flu shot varies each year based on how closely the vaccine matches the circulating strains. On average, the flu shot reduces the risk of flu illness by 40% to 60% among the overall population.

Even if you still get the flu after vaccination, the illness is usually milder and shorter, and you're less likely to develop complications.

Can You Get the Flu from the Flu Shot?

No. You cannot get the flu from the flu shot.

The vaccine uses inactive (dead) virus particles or proteins, which cannot cause infection. Any mild symptoms you feel afterward are your body’s way of developing immunity.

Where Can You Get a Flu Shot?

Getting vaccinated is simple and convenient. You can receive your flu shot at Central Pharmacy, where our trained pharmacists provide fast, friendly service with no appointment needed.

What to Expect at Central Pharmacy:

• A quick and professional vaccination experience

• Clean, safe, and comfortable environment

• Walk-ins welcome

• Most insurance plans accepted

Flu Shot Myths vs. Facts

Myth: The flu isn’t serious.

Fact: The flu causes thousands of hospitalizations and deaths each year, especially in high-risk groups.

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

Fact: Even healthy individuals can get and spread the flu. Vaccination helps protect you and others.

Myth: The flu shot causes the flu.

Fact: This is false. The vaccine is made with inactive virus and cannot cause illness.

How to Prepare for Your Flu Shot

Getting ready for your flu shot is easy. Here are a few tips:

• Wear short sleeves for easy access to your upper arm

• Eat a light meal beforehand if you're nervous about shots

• Bring your insurance card if applicable

• Stay for a few minutes after the shot, just in case of a rare reaction

Final Thoughts

The flu shot is a safe, effective, and simple way to protect yourself and your community from the influenza virus. At Central Pharmacy, we’re here to make the process as easy and comfortable as possible.

Don't wait—stop by and get your flu shot today. If you have any questions, our friendly pharmacists are happy to help.

Protect yourself. Protect your loved ones. Get vaccinated.