Debunking Five Common Flu Myths Our Providers Are Hearing This Season

As respiratory illness cases rise in our community, our healthcare providers are hearing many of the same questions from patients about how to stay well. But with so much information available online and through social media, it can be difficult to separate fact from fiction. Much like the flu itself, misinformation can spread quickly, which is why consulting trusted sources like your primary care physician is so important when you have questions about your health. 

Our medical team wants to help you navigate the noise. We've compiled five of the most common flu myths we're hearing in our clinics and exam rooms this season: 

Myth #1: "It's too late to get the flu shot now." 

The truth: It's never too late to get vaccinated during flu season. While it is recommended to get your flu shot in early fall, the flu typically peaks between December and February, meaning there's still time for the vaccine to provide protection. Even if you do contract the flu after vaccination, studies show that vaccinated individuals typically experience milder symptoms and fewer complications. 

Myth #2: "The flu shot will give me the flu." 

The truth: This is one of the most persistent myths we hear, and it is simply not possible. The flu vaccine contains either an inactivated virus or a single protein from the flu virus, neither of which can cause infection. Some people do experience mild side effects like a sore arm, low-grade fever or muscle aches for a day or two after vaccination. These symptoms are signs that your immune system is building protection, not that you have the flu. 

Myth #3: "Healthy people don't need to worry about the flu." 

The truth: While certain groups are at higher risk for complications including young children, older adults, pregnant women and people with chronic conditions, otherwise healthy individuals can and do experience severe flu illness. Each year, thousands of healthy adults are hospitalized with flu-related complications. Additionally, healthy people can easily spread the flu to vulnerable family members, coworkers and community members before they even know they're sick. Getting vaccinated and practicing good hygiene protects not just you, but everyone around you. 

Myth #4: "Antibiotics will cure the flu." 

The truth: Antibiotics treat bacterial infections, not viral infections like the flu. Taking antibiotics for the flu won't help you feel better and contributes to antibiotic resistance, a serious public health concern. For most people, the flu resolves on its own with rest, fluids and over-the-counter symptom relief. However, antiviral medications (like Tamiflu) can be prescribed by your doctor if started within the first 48 hours of symptoms. These medications are different from antibiotics and can shorten the duration of illness and reduce the risk of complications. 

Myth #5: "The stomach flu is the same as the flu." 

The truth: What people commonly call "stomach flu" is actually gastroenteritis, typically caused by norovirus or other gastrointestinal viruses. Influenza (the flu) is a respiratory illness that primarily affects your nose, throat and lungs. While some people with the flu may experience nausea or vomiting, especially children, the hallmark symptoms are fever, body aches, cough and fatigue. The confusion between these two illnesses leads some people to underestimate the seriousness of actual influenza. 

When to Seek Medical Care 

While most flu cases can be managed at home, contact your healthcare provider if you or a family member experiences: 

Get Care When You Need It with MyChart 

Feeling under the weather? Don't wait to get the care you need. CaroMont Health offers every patient access to MyChart, a free, online patient portal that allows you to easily schedule appointments, reach out to your primary care physician with questions and even request prescription refills. Whether you need to book a same-day sick visit, send a message about your symptoms or schedule your flu shot, MyChart puts your health at your fingertips. 

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