Think You’re Protected? 3 Flu Prevention Myths Debunked
Flu season is officially in full swing, and while most of us know the basics—wash your hands, cover your cough, and stay home if you’re sick—misinformation can be just as contagious as the virus itself. Every year, we hear the same reasons for skipping the shot, but as we navigate the 2025-2026 flu season, staying informed is your best line of defense. Think you’re fully protected? We’re setting the record straight by debunking three of the most common flu myths that could be standing between you and a healthy winter.
Myth 1: "It’s too late in the season to bother getting the shot."
The Reality: In the United States, the height of flu season is considered to be November through April, but people should begin getting vaccinated soon after the flu shot becomes available to ensure that as many people as possible are protected before flu season begins. However, as long as flu viruses are circulating in the community, it’s never too late to get vaccinated.
The flu vaccine is recommended for everyone except those under the age of six months. It is recommended that mothers of infants under six months get a flu shot to protect the infant through what is known as passive immunity. Adults over the age of 65 may benefit from the higher dose vaccine.
Myth 2: "The flu shot can give you the flu."
The Reality: The vaccine is made from dead influenza viruses and can't give you the flu. Even if you do get the flu after getting your flu shot, you will be less likely to spread it since you’ve had the vaccine and you’ll recover faster. Very rarely, individuals can have severe allergic reactions to the flu shot, so it’s important to discuss with your physician prior to getting the vaccine.
For most people, the risk of complications from the vaccine is much smaller than the risk of complications from being infected with the flu virus itself. Some minor side effects that may occur from the flu shot are soreness, redness or swelling at the injection site or a low-grade fever.
Myth 3: "If I get the flu anyway, the vaccine didn't work."
The Reality: Many people believe the vaccine is an "all-or-nothing" shield. However, a vaccinated person who catches the flu is likely to have a shorter recovery time and less severe symptoms. Most importantly, you are less likely to spread the virus to vulnerable people, like infants under six months who are too young to be vaccinated themselves.
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Whether you're looking to stay protected or need a hand getting back on your feet, Cone Health is right here w/you. Schedule an appointment with your primary care doctor, connect with a provider through a virtual visit or find an urgent care near you at conehealth.com/getcarenow.
About the Author
Cynthia Snider, MD, is an infectious diseases specialist with the Regional Center of Infectious Disease, a clinical assistant professor of medicine at Cone Health, and a member of Cone Health Medical Group.
