5 flu myths
By Tucson Medical Center
·
10/21/2019
We’ve all been fooled by flu myths.
But not anymore.
Here are five common myths you might hear about the flu, and why they’re not true.
- Although flu season coincides with fall and winter, the two are not related. The only way to catch the flu is by being exposed to the influenza virus.
- Nothing beats a steaming bowl of mom’s chicken soup when you’re sick, but other than soothing a sore throat and making you feel warm and cozy, the soup doesn’t have flu-fighting powers.
- It takes about two weeks for the flu shot to take effect, so you can still get sick during that time, but the shot itself does not give you the flu. In fact, the vaccine is made with dead viral particles and since the virus is not living, it can’t infect you.
- The flu is most threatening to older people and those with a chronic illness, but it can still cause severe symptoms in the young and healthy set. Also, getting the shot can prevent you from spreading the virus to those most vulnerable. Getting vaccinated can protect your grandparents.
- Although, some people do end up with digestive issues during their bout with the flu, it’s not a typical symptom (fever, chills and sweats, cough, loss of appetite, body aches, etc.). If you’re experiencing nausea, vomiting or diarrhea, without the classic flu symptoms, you’re likely dealing with a completely different thing.
Ask your doctor about getting a flu vaccine. Need a provider for your family? Go here.
