Do you have to get a flu shot?

Answer 1

The outer coating of the flu virus continually changes its shape. The flu vaccine uses a weak form of the virus with a similar shape to the most common types of flu. By the next year, a new type of flu is circulating. If you get a vaccine, it will be for a virus with a different shape. You will have the option of getting a vaccine for the new type of flu.

Answer 2

Yes, because each year there are different viruses that are expected to be spreading, and the vaccines are made to work for the three most likely to cause infections for that flu season.

More:

In the US during the 2010-2011 flu season, the vaccine against the H1N1/09 Swine Flu is one of the three vaccines in the seasonal flu shot. Although the Pandemic is over, during this Post Pandemic Phase, there are still outbreaks of infections from it around the world and a chance you could catch it, if you don't get a flu vaccination.

Answer 3

No, but getting one will cut your odds of getting the flu down to almost 0%. Some people go through the flu season without getting a flu shot and don't get the flu (but they are an exception and very lucky and healthy people).

Anyone who does not want to be sick with the flu or give it to people close to them who would not tolerate being that ill, such as infants under 6 months old, senior citizens, those with certain diseases that have compromised their immune systems, etc. should really consider getting the vaccinations every year.

Also, in the US, some health care workers in some states where it is required by law, or some employees whose employer has made that a condition of employment (if they want to keep the job) must get the vaccination. Otherwise it is entirely optional, although highly recommended.

The types of flu shots that are used today are proven safe and effective after decades of use. Unless you have an allergy to them (or eggs, which are used to grow the flu to create the vaccine), or have a weak immune system from a disease such as HIV, leukemia, transplant patients, or those with other diseases that affect their immune system, there really is no reason not to get one. It is a good citizen thing to do for public health, too.

Answer 4

you don't have to get the H1N1 flu shot if you don't want to. It is completely your choice. But it is recommended because the H1N1 flu is probably not very fun because you are home for a long time and you feel miserable.