Three Flu Vaccine Myths as Flu Season Ramps up in San Diego County

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Flu cases are on the rise in San Diego County. Last week, 116 cases were recorded compared to 77 the week before. To date, 1,209 cases have been tracked this year, up from 733 at this time last flu season.

Starting in late October 2024, data from wastewater testing is showing increases in influenza virus detection. Wastewater monitoring is used to provide additional information about the presence or spread of disease in our community.

"We are going to have a busy flu season. With holiday gatherings approaching it is especially important to be vigilant by covering your cough, washing your hands and getting vaccinated against the flu," said Dr. Ankita Kadakia, interim County public health officer. "Additionally, whenever possible, it is important to refrain from going to any gathering when you know you are sick."

The flu vaccine has for decades been the best protection we have against the virus. In that time, it has also generated some myths that are important to address.

Flu Vaccine Myth #1 - The flu isn't that serious. I don't need the vaccine

• It's true that many people get the flu and feel better within a week or two. But some people can, and do, get seriously sick and even die. Last flu season nearly 20,000 people got the flu, 1,500 were hospitalized and 60 San Diegans died including two infants. The flu vaccine can help protect you and your loved ones who are most at risk of getting seriously sick like young children or older adults.

Flu Vaccine Myth #2 - The flu vaccine will give me the flu

• The flu vaccine cannot make you sick with the flu. It is made of inactive or dead viruses. The nasal spray vaccine is made of weakened viruses. You may have some side effects from the flu vaccine or nasal spray vaccine like a sore arm or even a headache, muscle aches or a runny nose. These symptoms should not last long and are much less severe than actually getting the flu.

Flu Vaccine Myth #3 - I had the vaccine and still got the flu, so it doesn't work

• Scientists spend a lot of time predicting which flu strains should go into the vaccine each year. Flu viruses can change or mutate similar to other respiratory viruses. Some individuals may pick up a strain that is not in the vaccine however most strains that are active during a flu season are in the vaccine. Even though you may still get sick, you are more likely to have milder flu symptoms. It takes about two weeks to build up the antibodies that protect you. Even with a chance you will still get sick, it is still really important to get the vaccine each year and improve your chances of avoiding getting sick, and maybe even accidentally giving it to the people around you.

If you want to learn more, the County Health and Human Services Agency publishes the Respiratory Viruses Surveillance report, which tracks key flu, COVID-19, and RSV indicators and summarizes respiratory virus surveillance in the region.

How to Prevent the Flu

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone 6 months and older get a flu shot every year. The CDC also indicates you can get a flu and COVID-19 vaccination at the same time, including a booster dose. The COVID-19 vaccine does not work against the flu or vice versa.

The flu vaccine is especially important for people at higher risk of having serious complications from the virus.

They include:

• People with chronic medical conditions like asthma, diabetes, and lung disease, even if symptoms are under control

• People aged 65 years and older

• People who live with or care for others who are at higher risk

The influenza vaccine is available at doctors' offices and retail pharmacies and is covered by medical insurance. People with no health care coverage can get vaccinated at one of the County's six public health centers or a local community clinic. To find the nearest location, visit the County's Flu Vaccine Locations page or call 2-1-1 San Diego.

In addition to getting vaccinated, people should also do the following to avoid getting sick:

• Wash hands thoroughly and often;

• Use hand sanitizers, if unable to wash hands;

• Stay away from sick people;

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth;

• Clean commonly touched surfaces; and

• If you are sick, stay home and avoid contact with others.

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