What Are Flu Shots?
Flu shots, also known as influenza vaccines that protect against four influenza viruses, are usually given before winter. About 10 to 20 percent get the flu every winter, which is high in children, about 40 percent. Once vaccination is given, it takes two weeks to develop immunity. Optimal protection against influenza occurs within three to four months after being vaccinated. It is essential to take flu shots every year for protection against viruses. Studies show that among older people more than 65 years old, flu shots have reduced rates of hospital visits for flu. The Centre for Disease Control's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) suggests that every individual six months or older should get an annual flu vaccine provided there are no pre-existing allergies or severe health conditions. Though vaccines have a significant role in preventing disease, they also have side effects. However, side effects from flu shots are usually minor and much less severe. Guillain-Barré syndrome is one of the rare disorders seen even after the activation of the immune system that leads to the destruction of the nervous system. This syndrome is linked to flu shots.
How Does the Flu Occur?
Flu occurs through infected people's cough and sneezing. The infection period for adults is about five days before symptoms occur, and for children, if more than ten days. In immunocompromised people, it lasts for weeks or months. Symptoms of flu are fever, chills, sore throat, cough, headache, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, tiredness, vomiting, and diarrhea. Diarrhea is more common in children than adults. Some severe flu complications are pneumonia (lung infection) and dehydration (loss of body fluids).
What Is the Method of Action and Delivery of Flu Shots?
Flu shots are available in two forms. Both forms will target three or four viral strains. The traditional flu shots are delivered into the muscle, mainly in the upper arm, with a single injection. The other form is nasal spray. The composition of the flu shot is the inactivated form of the influenza virus. These viruses cannot replicate and infect newer individuals. The immune system of the individual receiving the shot will detect the virus and generate an immune response. Flu vaccines can reduce the risk of flu-associated hospitalization, protect pregnant women and infants after birth, save children, and protect people.
What Are the Common Side Effects of Flu Shots?
The Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) lists the common side effects of flu shots, including soreness, redness, swelling in areas where the shot was injected, headache, fever, nausea, fatigue, and muscle aches. It can occasionally cause fainting. If these reactions occur, they usually start soon after vaccination and may last for two days. Out of all the side effects, the most common is a reaction at the injection site that is on the upper arm. After a shot is injected, there might be redness, soreness, warmth, and sometimes mild swelling. These effects are usually seen for less than two days. Headaches and other body aches and muscle pain usually happen on the first day of injection and go away within two days. Pain relievers can ease the pain.
However, the study is controversial regarding the intake of pain relievers. Some studies suggest that intake of pain relievers may reduce the response of vaccines to the body. Though dizziness or fainting is rare, it should not last more than two days. Dizziness can be avoided by sitting for a while after receiving a shot and having a snack before or after the shot. A fever of 101 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius) or less is a common side effect of flu shots. Fever should vanish within a day or two. Coughing and sneezing may occur sometimes with nasal flu shots. Symptoms of sore throat can occur with nasal flu shot.
What Are the Serious Side Effects of Flu Shots?
Life-threatening allergic reactions to flu shots are infrequent. Signs of severe allergic reactions include hoarseness or wheezing, paleness, dizziness, breathing problems, and a fast heartbeat. These severe symptoms occur within a few minutes or hours after receiving a shot. These severe symptoms occur mainly when the individual is allergic to egg protein or other ingredients such as gelatin or antibiotics in the vaccine. CDC suggests that individuals with an egg allergy history should be vaccinated in a medical setting. They should be supervised by a healthcare provider who recognizes and manages severe allergic reactions. Two completely egg-free flu vaccine options are available. This egg-free vaccine was widely available during the 2022 to 2023 flu season.
Is There a Possibility of Occurrence of Guillain-Barre Syndrome With Flu Shot?
Chances of Guillain-Barre syndrome occurring are scarce from the flu vaccine. It is a neurological disorder that attacks body nerve cells and causes weakness and paralysis. The occurrence is one to two cases per million vaccinated. Most people recover from Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS), and several treatments can help reduce the duration of illness. GBS mainly occurs in individuals who had a history of GBS in the past. The mortality rate is 4 to 7 percent.
Side Effects of Nasal Spray Flu Shot
Nasal flu shot is a choice for those who prefer needless shots, and they are mostly given above two years of age and do not have a history of asthma, diabetes, or other health issues that include the immune system. The reason is it contains live flu virus. Side effects of nasal spray flu shot include congestion, runny nose, headache, wheezing, vomiting, low-grade fever, and cough.
Conclusion
Side effects of flu shots are usually mild, last for a day or two, and can be managed at home. The most common side effects are redness or soreness at the injection site. Serious side effects are rare, mainly in individuals having allergic reactions who are allergic to eggs, gelatin, and other ingredients of shots. Guillain-Barre syndrome is a rare disorder that occurs through flu shots.
