Share of Cost, Flu Shot: Side Effects
Although side effects are usually very mild, the flu shot can cause pain, redness, or swelling where the shot was given. A few people may also experience body aches or a low fever. Hives on the skin. The appearance of hives can signal an allergic reaction to the flu shot.
In rare cases, the flu shot can cause a severe allergic reaction. When this happens, it usually occurs within minutes or hours after the shot is given. The following are signs that require emergency treatment:
* Wheezing
* Swelling in the face
* Hives
* Trouble breathing
* Feeling very weak or dizzy
* Paleness
Because the viruses in the shot are weakened or inactivated, the flu shot cannot give someone the flu. However, it is possible to get the flu even after getting a flu shot. This may happen when a person is infected with a strain that was not in the shot, or if a person gets the flu before the shot has had time to take effect.