Flu Shots: What You Need to Know Play Video
Posted: Nov 6, 2009 12:39 PM
Updated: Nov 9, 2009 8:22 AM
Some doctors' offices are running out, but you still have a chance to get your seasonal flu vaccine. KATC and Our Lady of Lourdes are giving it out Saturday, November 7th as part of our "Living Right" campaign.
However, many questions remain about the vaccine, so here is what you need to know:
First, flu season actually starts in December and lasts until the around the end of February, but doctors recommend getting vaccinated now.
The vaccine is given in two forms: shots and mists.
"The flu shot is a dead virus; the mist is a live virus that we find tends to work better in kids," says Dr. Kelly Cahill.
You should not get the flu mist if you are pregnant or have asthma or a chronic illness, because the live virus is more likely to cause problems.
One big question is: does the vaccine make you sick?
"That's kind of an old wives tale, but you can get the flu because it takes 10 days to 2 weeks for the shot to kick in so you're susceptible during that period," says Dr. Cahill.
Remember that the can be serious-- even fatal-- so get vaccinated to protect you and your family.
The flu vaccines will be given at Academy Sports on Ambassador Caffery in Lafayette Saturday from 10:30 to 1:30. They cost $20. There is a limited supply.
