WHEN it comes to the flu, a lot of myths and messages surround them, and it could be hard to tell which is true or false, leading to confusion. Here are five of some of the biggest flu facts.
1) The flu is a bad cold
This is a false fact, while the flu and the common cold share common characteristics and symptoms, the flu is far more serious. The flu can last for more than a week and also causes complications, in rare cases, it can be fatal. The flu comes abruptly unlike the cold that creeps up on you and the flu can also hit you with multiple symptoms simultaneously.
2) You can only spread the flu when you have symptoms
This is a false fact, as it typically takes around two days after a person has been infected to start noticing symptoms of the flu, according to the CDC. This simply means it is possible to pass along your germs before realizing you are sick; some people can actually be infected with the flu virus and spread it to others without ever feeling sick themselves. Taking note of your hygiene and getting your flu shots can reduce the risk of infecting others.
3) Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself against the flu
This is a true fact, and experts agree that flu shots should be the first line of defense. According to the American Lung Association, vaccines are especially important for adults age 50 and over, kids under 5, and those with chronic health problems (like diabetes, asthma, COPD, and heart disease) or a weakened immune system. This is because this group is at a higher risk of developing serious complications.
4) The flu vaccine takes a while to kick in
This is a true fact, and the Center for Disease Control (CDC) says it takes about two weeks for your immune system to develop the antibodies that help protect you from the flu after getting a vaccination. Experts advise getting the shots before the flu season is in full swing.
5) The flu shot is reliable and certain
This is a false fact and according to CDC reports, experts agree that the shot is the best protection we have, reducing the risk of flu illness by as much as 60 percent among the overall population. If you catch the flu even though you have been vaccinated, it will probably be milder than if you hadn’t got a shot.
According to CDC research, the flu shot has been shown to reduce the risk of flu-associated hospitalizations in adults by around 40 percent.
Reference: Prevention
