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Flu Myths: Busted Flu Myths: Busted Almost every year, a rumour pops up about the flu – and that rumour spreads more easily now through email or the internet. Do you think you know the truth about the flu? Here are some common flu myths, busted. Flu myth: "I am already vaccinated and therefore protected from the flu." In addition, it takes about 2 weeks after the flu shot before it gives you full protection, so you may still be vulnerable to the flu virus after getting the flu shot. Sometimes, an influenza virus strain appears that is so different from previous strains that we have limited immunity to the strain, such as the H1N1 influenza virus that appeared in 2009. Other times, a flu shot may not be as effective because there is a "mismatch" between the flu virus strains used in the vaccine (which are based on predictions by experts) and the strains that actually circulate in the community. So, even a flu shot may not prevent you from getting the flu. Seniors and people with a weakened immune system may not get the full benefit of a flu shot because their bodies do not respond as well as a healthy adult's to the flu vaccine. This means that they may still be vulnerable to the flu and its complications despite getting the flu shot. If you have received the flu vaccine but you still get the flu, there are flu treatments available if it’s caught early on. If you do get the flu, contact your doctor as soon as possible to find out if you should be examined. If you are at risk of flu complications, see your doctor as soon as you have symptoms. Flu myth: "I can let the flu run its course." Flu myth: "Antibiotics and herbal products work to treat the flu." Herbal products have long been used to help treat illnesses, including flu infection and the common cold. Echinacea, ginseng, vitamin C, and zinc have been studied for their effects on flu infection. There is some evidence that some of these products may possibly help prevent or treat the common cold. Unfortunately, there is not enough evidence to support that any of these actually work to treat flu. |
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