Flu Season: Who Should and Should Not Get a Flu Shot?

While the 2020-2021 flu season may be quite different from any we have experienced in the past thanks to COVID-19, one thing remains the same: it is still essential to get a flu shot and protect yourself from influenza.

But not everyone should get a flu shot. Here are some more details about who should and who should not get the flu vaccine.

Who Should and Shouldn’t Get the Flu Vaccine

All people who are over the age of 6 months should get a flu shot every year, with a few exceptions. While the flu shot has been proven to be effective in preventing millions of people from getting sick each flu season, some people may even end up with severe or fatal consequences from the vaccine.

Who Should Get the Flu Vaccine

There are several different types of flu shots distributed each year, which are approved for people of different ages and people who have specific allergies. Each person should receive a flu shot that is appropriate for their age group. 

Some flu shots are recommended for seniors and people with weak immune systems. These vaccines are stronger and will provide more protection to people who are more vulnerable to the virus.

Other standard shots are usually given to healthier individuals who typically do not suffer from severe effects if they do end up with the flu.

There are inactivated flu shots or IIVs available and approved for individuals as young as six months of age. These shots are often given to children.

Some flu shots are only approved for adults. The Recombinant Influenza Vaccine or RIV has been approved for individuals over 18, and both the high-dose inactivated shots and the Adjuvanted shots are authorized to be given to the elderly.

Individuals with certain health conditions and pregnant women can take the flu shot, but it is usually a specific type of vaccine to protect without risk. Most individuals who have an egg allergy can get a flu shot if it doesn’t contain any egg products. Always notify the doctor or nurse administering the shot if you have an egg allergy.

Who Should Not Get a Flu Shot

Some individuals should not get a flu shot due to safety concerns.

Children who are under the age of 6 months should not get a flu vaccine. Also, individuals who have severe or life-threatening allergies to the vaccine or any ingredients in it should avoid getting a flu shot. These ingredients can include antibiotics and gelatin.

If you have Guillain-Barre syndrome, also known as GBS, you should speak with your doctor before getting a flu shot. They may advise against it. Also, if you are not feeling well and experiencing flu-like symptoms, you should put off getting a flu shot at this time or speak with your doctor to see what they recommend.  

There is also a nasal-spray vaccine option available, but it should only be given to specific individuals. Many of the same rules apply to the nasal spray as they do to the shot. Children between 2 and 4 years of age and those who have asthma or a history of wheezing should not receive the nasal spray vaccine.

Learn the Facts About Flu Season 2020

If you have questions or concerns about getting a flu shot this season, get in touch with our experts here at BASS Urgent Care. We are open and available to assist you with all your non-medical needs. Contact us today (925) 329-3718 for more details.