Flu Shot (Vaccine) for Adults
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 6, 2024.
AMBULATORY CARE:
The flu shot
is a vaccine given in your upper arm or thigh to help prevent influenza (the flu). The flu is caused by a virus. The virus spreads through direct contact with someone who has the flu. For example, a person with the virus on his or her hands can spread it by shaking hands with someone. Several types of viruses cause the flu. The viruses change over time, so new vaccines are made each year. The vaccine begins to protect you about 2 weeks after you get it. Get the vaccine as soon as recommended each year, usually starting in September or October.
What to tell your doctor before you get a flu shot:
- You have any allergies.
- You developed Guillain-Barré syndrome within 6 weeks of getting a flu shot. You may not be able to get any flu vaccine unless your provider feels the benefits outweigh the risks.
- You have or are in close personal contact with someone who has a weakened immune system.
Who should not get the flu shot or should wait to get it:
You may need to wait to get the flu shot, or instead get the nasal flu vaccine. Tell your healthcare provider if:
- You had an allergic reaction to a flu shot or any part of it.
- You are sick or have a fever of 101°F (38.3°C) or higher.
Risks of the flu shot:
The vaccine may cause mild symptoms, such as a fever, headache, and muscle aches. You may also have mild to moderate soreness or redness at the area where you were given the shot. You may still get the flu after you receive the vaccine. You may have an allergic reaction to the vaccine. This can be life-threatening.
Treatment options
The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.
- measles virus vaccine/mumps virus vaccine/rubella virus vaccine/varicella virus vaccine
- ProQuad
- Rotarix
- RotaTeq
- rotavirus vaccine
Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) if:
- Your mouth and throat are swollen.
- You are wheezing or having trouble breathing.
- You have chest pain or your heart is beating faster than normal for you.
- You feel like you are going to faint.
Seek care immediately if:
- Your face is red or swollen.
- You have hives that spread over your body.
Call your doctor if:
- You feel weak or dizzy.
- You have increased pain, redness, or swelling around the area where the shot was given.
- You have questions or concerns about the flu shot.
Apply a warm compress
to the injection area to decrease pain and swelling.
Follow up with your doctor as directed:
Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
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