While the symptoms of flu are familiar to many of us — including fever, chills, muscles aches and sore throat — there are a lot of misconceptions about prevention and treatment. Sunnybrook’s Chief of Microbiology, Dr. Andrew Simor, debunks some common myths.
Myth 1: The flu vaccine can make you sick. The flu vaccine is composed of only killed virus, so it’s impossible to get the flu from the vaccine. Because it takes about two weeks for the flu vaccine to take effect, that’s why some people still get the flu after being vaccinated.
Myth 2: There are some dangerous side effects to the flu vaccine. The most common side effect from the flu shot is a sore arm, something acetaminophen can help with. Dr. Simor says decades of experience in millions of people shows the flu vaccine is overwhelmingly safe. If you are concerned, talk to your doctor.
Myth 3: Cold weather causes the flu. The flu season runs through the winter months, but outdoor temperature has no effect. The flu is viral, and the only way to get it is to come into contact with someone who is sick with sore throat, coughing or sneezing as they are shedding the virus into the environment.
Myth 4: Starve a fever, feed a cold. While chicken soup may hit the spot, it won’t speed up recovery! Thankfully, there is an effective anti-viral medication available called Tamiflu. If diagnosed and taken early enough, this pill can reduce the duration of symptoms and also cut the risk of complications from the flu, which can include pneumonia, a severe lung infection.
Myth 5: You are only contagious once flu symptoms are visible. The flu virus is actually present and contagious about a day before symptoms appear. That means you should stay home at the first sign of symptoms to reduce the risk of making others sick.
Myth 6: Vitamins and herbals will help prevent and treat the flu. When it comes to other compounds, like vitamin C, zinc and various herbal remedies, Dr. Simor says none have been shown to really make a difference. Vaccination and handwashing are the two most effective weapons against the flu.
Seems Doc has an agenda