Can the Flu Shot Vaccine Give You the Flu?

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Can the Flu Shot Vaccine Give You the Flu?

Answer: No, the virus in the flu shot vaccine is not active, and an inactive virus cannot transmit disease

A common myth cited as a reason for not getting the flu shot is that the shot will give you the flu. That is scientifically impossible. Here’s why. By Libby Richards, Purdue University. Cover Photo: A nurse in Atlanta prepared the flu vaccine for a shot on Feb. 7, 2109. David Goldman/AP Photo

Flu vaccination prevents millions of flu-related illnesses and deaths annually, but vaccination rates are low for many reasons.

During the 2018-2019 flu season, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that about 45% of U.S. adults received the flu vaccine. While this is an increase of 8% from 2017-2018, it falls way below the national goal of 70% of American adults receiving a flu shot.

Unusual Type of Virus Is Dominating Early Start to the Year’s Flu Season

Flu season in the United States can ramp up in the fall and peak anywhere between December and March, then drag itself out as late as May.

Influenza Vaccine Options for this Season

There are several types of flu vaccines offered at many convenient locations, including physician offices, public health departments, drug and retail stores, workplaces, and schools.