Welia Health physician answers questions about the flu

September 16, 2024 / Family Medicine / 22-minute read

Dr. Matthew Allen, a family medicine physician with Welia Health, answers questions about flu vaccine safety, effectiveness, and alternatives.

Why is it essential for everyone, including children, to be vaccinated against the flu?

The flu can cause serious health issues like pneumonia, hospitalization, and even death, especially for the young, the elderly, or those with chronic conditions. Vaccination is a simple and effective way to protect ourselves, prevent flu outbreaks, and reduce the strain on healthcare resources.

Why do we need a flu vaccine every year?

Flu viruses constantly change, so the vaccine must be updated yearly to match the current strains. Our immunity from past vaccines can also weaken over time. Getting vaccinated annually helps ensure we stay protected and helps prevent the spread of the flu within our community.

I’m afraid of needles. Is there an alternative?

Yes, there is. The FluMist® nasal vaccine is an option for those with a needle phobia. However, FluMist is in limited supply and reserved for those genuinely fearing needles. While FluMist has historically been less effective than the traditional vaccine, the CDC now considers them similarly effective.

Why is it essential for children two and younger to receive the flu vaccine, especially the second shot?

Young children are at higher risk for severe flu complications, like pneumonia. The second dose, given about four weeks after the first, strengthens their immunity and lowers their risk of severe health issues and hospitalization. Read more about childhood immunizations or speak with our healthcare providers at Welia Health. We’re here to help guide you through your child’s immunization needs.

If flu vaccines are so important, why don’t schools require them?

Flu vaccines are essential because they prevent kids from getting sick and missing school. Studies have shown that children with regular attendance do significantly better in school. Unfortunately, it is difficult for schools to track who’s had their flu shot yearly, so they don’t require it.

What are some reasons people decline the flu vaccine, and how do you address those concerns?

Fear of side effects: Some worry about getting sick from the vaccine. Common side effects include mild redness or soreness at the injection site and occasionally mild fever or body aches. These are normal and brief, indicating that your body is building immunity, not the flu.

Effectiveness concerns: The flu vaccine isn’t perfect and doesn’t prevent all flu cases, but it significantly reduces the risk of severe illness, pneumonia, hospitalization, and death.

Egg allergies: Those with egg allergies were previously advised to avoid egg-based flu vaccines. However, recent research shows they can safely receive these vaccines with an extremely low risk of reaction.

What is Welia Health doing to ensure the recommended vaccines are safe and effective?

Welia Health bases our vaccine recommendations on thorough research. We acknowledge and address concerns by offering clear, evidence-based information on vaccine safety and effectiveness.