Let’s debunk the myths first!

“The flu vaccine gave me the flu”
False: The flu vaccine is made of particles of the flu virus. It does not contain any live virus.

“I never get sick, so there is no need for me to get vaccinated”
False: It only takes being exposed to the virus to catch it. As we age, our immune system is less effective at protecting us, which is why it’s important to get vaccinated annually.

“The flu vaccine doesn’t work”
False: The vaccine’s effectiveness has been demonstrated. However, the vaccine is developed based on the flu strains circulating during the year. It’s rare for a new strain to appear, but when it does, the vaccine may not cover it, leading to more flu cases.

“I have a cold but it doesn’t prevent me from getting the flu vaccine”
True: Having a cold does not affect the vaccine’s effectiveness and will not make you sicker. It is safe to get the flu vaccine even if you have a cold.

“It is possible to get the flu even after having the flu vaccine”
True: The vaccine does not provide 100% protection against the flu, but it can greatly reduce symptoms and shorten the duration of illness.

“The people most at risk of getting the flu are children and the elderly”
True: The immune systems of children and elderly people can be weaker than those of adults, making them more vulnerable. They also have a higher risk of hospitalization and even death.

What can we do to prevent the flu and colds?

• Wash your hands frequently;
• Cough and sneeze into the crook of your arm instead of your hands;
• Avoid touching your nose, mouth, and eyes with your hands;
• Clean objects and surfaces that may be contaminated, such as door handles, remote controls, and phones;
• Maintain healthy lifestyle habits such as physical activity, staying hydrated, and eating well;
• Adopt good sleep hygiene;
• Getting the flu vaccine can help protect you and those around you from catching the illness.

What are the treatments?

There is no treatment that directly attacks the flu or cold virus. Antibiotics are not effective and may even prolong illness if prescribed unnecessarily. It is important to consult a specialized nurse practitioner to determine if antibiotics are truly needed.

Treatment will focus on relieving symptoms:

• Rest;
• Stay well hydrated: drink 1.5 to 2 liters of water per day;
• Tylenol© or Advil© for comfort;
• Sinus cleaning (Sinus rinse©);
• Cough syrup if needed.

Remember that the vaccine is the most effective way to protect yourself against the flu!

Jacinthe A. Gariépy, NP
PRAXIS Family Health Clinic