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Flu Shot Dangers

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends seasonal flu vaccinations for most people--especially those with weakened immune systems, young children, pregnant women and senior citizens. While the flu shot prevents 70 percent of flu cases, it does pose some risks.

  1. Features

    • The flu shot contains deactivated, or dead, flu viruses. When exposed to these dead viruses, the immune system creates and stores antibodies that are critical in fighting off flu infections.

    Side Effects

    • Because the flu shot contains only deactivated viruses, you cannot get the flu from the shot itself. However, common side effects after receiving the flu shot include injection-site pain, low-grade fever and muscle aches, which clear within 24 to 48 hours.

    Allergic Reactions

    • In rare instances, allergic reactions to the flu shot can occur. Breathing difficulties, wheezing, hives, weakness, palor and rapid heartbeat can signify an allergic reaction to the flu shot. If you should develop any of these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.

    Guillain-Barré Syndome

    • The CDC has conducted studies to evaluate the link between Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) and the flu shot. Studies suggest that the likelihood of getting GBS from the flu shot is one in 1 million.

    Considerations

    • The flu shot will not prevent all strains of the virus. If you should come into contact with someone infected with a strain of the virus that was not included in the flu vaccine, you can still contract influenza.

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