Flu FAQ | QuadMed

Don’t let myths or questions keep you from getting a flu shot this year. Learn the truth and get your vaccine to protect yourself, your loved ones and your community! Isn’t it worth a shot?

MYTH

The vaccine can give you the flu.

FACT

Flu vaccines are made with inactivated viruses and cannot cause flu illness.

MYTH

If you don’t get the flu shot in October, it’s too late to be protected.

FACT

The best time to be vaccinated is September and October, but as long as flu is still in your area, you can gain protection.

MYTH

You don’t need to get a flu shot every year.

FACT

Flu immunity declines over time and the vaccine is updated annually, so a shot is required every year.

MYTH

The flu is not dangerous.

FACT

Thousands die from the flu every year. The young, elderly or those with compromised immune systems are especially at risk.

MYTH

Getting vaccinated guarantees you won’t get the flu.

FACT

Even after a flu shot, you may still get sick, but the illness is likely to be milder than it would without a shot.

MYTH

You can't get your flu shot and your COVID-19 vaccine on the same day.

FACT

It's safe to get your flu shot and COVID-19 vaccine on the same day.

FLU FAQs

Who should get a flu vaccine?

The flu vaccine is recommended every year for everyone six months old and older.

Why should I get a flu vaccine?

The flu vaccine helps protect you and the people around you. Having more people vaccinated provides more protection for the community.

What is the difference between the flu and COVID-19?

Flu and COVID-19 are both contagious respiratory illnesses, but they are caused by different viruses.

Some of the symptoms of flu and COVID-19 are similar, and they can both result in serious illness. It is possible to get the flu and COVID-19 at the same time.

Testing will determine if your symptoms are caused by the flu or COVID-19.

Will a flu vaccine protect me against COVID-19?

No. However, flu vaccines reduce your risk of flu illness, hospitalization and death.

Are there enough doses of the flu vaccine available for the 2020-2021 flu season?

If you have any of the following symptoms, call your primary care provider. They can help you determine if it is the flu or COVID-19.

fever or feeling feverish/chills
cough
sore throat
runny or stuffy nose
muscle or body aches
headaches
fatigue (tiredness)
some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults.