Each year as the months begin to get colder and the calendar turns from fall to winter, we see and hear adverts encouraging us to get the flu shot, a booster that is supposed to give us protection from the strains of the influenza virus. Much controversy surrounds the shot and its advantages and disadvantages so before making a decision it is best to educate yourself on the pro’s and con’s of the shot.


The flu vaccine, while protecting you from the flu dormant in your shot, can also protect you from mutations of the flu virus. However, while you may still contract it, it can mean you’ll have a less severe case. The population above 65 years old are the most at risk of hospitalization and even death from flu. Getting the flu shot each year cuts the risk by 60 percent of the general population contracting the disease and could save lives.

The flu shot will keep you on top of your game and ready and able to continue to balance work and family life effectively but for those of you scared of needles, flu shots can now be provided by a nasal spray, so you’ll have no excuse.


The flu shot, although protecting you from a nasty virus, can sometimes have side effects that come with it. Aches, swelling or redness at the injection site are quite common but should ease soon after the injection. Although cases are rare, more serious health issues have occurred due to the flu shot. Breathing problems, increased heart rate and wheezing are symptoms that sometimes arise due to allergic reaction. Anyone with an allergy to eggs cannot take the shot.

Any flu shot can take up to two weeks to create an active defense in your body while there are various strains of flu, so the shot that you are given may not work. Even then, those who have had the flu shot may still contract it based on varying conditions, such as age and health factors.

Getting the flu shot is a personal decision and while some may feel pressured into getting it, especially in the workplace or at school, there are certain things that need to be taken into consideration before doing so. If you have any doubts about the pro’s and con’s for you or your children, contact your local GP to attain some more detailed information.