If you’re like many moms, getting a flu shot is never on top of your list during the fall. Maybe you don’t worry about the flu, or you hate getting shots, or you’re just too busy. Or you worry about the vaccine’s safety for your kids.
But this year, preventing the flu has a whole new importance.
What is different about getting the flu shot this year?
What are the side effects of the flu shot?
For the majority of people, reactions to the flu shot are minor, such as soreness or redness and swelling where the shot was given, low-grade headaches, slight fever, nausea, muscle aches, or fatigue.
And no, the flu shot doesn’t give you the flu, even though you might feel that way. “Logically I know the flu shot is not a live virus and cannot give you the flu, however, the flu-like symptoms always convince me the shot gave me the flu,” Southern Californian mom of two Lynee Port earlier confessed to Mom.com.
When to call the doctor
You should keep in mind that serious side effects from the flu shot are extremely rare. Symptoms may include:
- High fever (above 101°F)
- Hives
- Trouble breathing
- Fast heart rate
- Dizziness
- Weakness
If you experience any of these symptoms you should call your doctor. If they are severe, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.
