Flu Shot Misconceptions Making People Question Getting Vaccine
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- With the holidays among us, doctors say now is the time to protect yourself. Problem is misconceptions about the flu shot have people second guessing whether or not to get vaccinated.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, most Americans still have not gotten their flu shot this season and influenza is everywhere now.
There are already 512 confirmed flu cases in Pennsylvania -- the most of which are in Delaware County where 40 people are sick with the flu.
For years Jay Feldman didn't bother getting a flu shot. He figured he wouldn't get sick or that the flu wouldn't be that bad. But last year he realized he was wrong.
"About five days bed-ridden. Missing finals. It was tough," said Feldman about catching the flu.
The CDC says flu activity is on the rise. In Pennsylvania and Delaware, flu cases are localized. In New Jersey, influenza is sporadic.
The virus is spreading and federal health officials are concerned because only two out of five people in the US have gotten a flu shot. They're urging everyone six months and older to get vaccinated.
"So by getting your flu vaccine you're not only being good to yourself, but your neighbor and your loved ones," explained infectious disease specialist, Dr. Shanna Levine.
Doctors say the more people who get vaccinated, the less chance the flu has to spread. And they stress that people need to be vaccinated every year because the shot changes to match the flu strains expected to be circulating.
Feldman says he's not taking any more chances.
"It takes getting the flu to really get you in here."
While the shot isn't 100 percent effective, doctors say if you get the vaccine, you may not get as sick if you end up with the flu.
Flu is especially dangerous for the elderly, small children and pregnant women. And the vaccine is safe for women who are expecting and can also protect their newborn babies.
Doctors say it's important to remind everyone that the vaccine will not give you the flu.
