If you worry about flu shot ingredients, you should know that they have a decades-long history of safety.
Otherwise, they typically contain several basic ingredients.
Flu shots vary in ingredients, manufacturing method, brand, and delivery.
Verywell / Theresa Chiechi
These are the ingredients typically found in most flu vaccines.
The virus replicates in the egg, then its extracted and used in vaccines.
This is the most common flu shot manufacturing process, and its been used safely for over 70 years.
These vaccines are recommended for adults over the age of 65 and arent suitable for everyone.
Many people are concerned about thimerosal.
These ingredients may also be added during processing to eliminate toxins.
Formaldehyde is produced naturally in the body, where its used to build proteins.
Its also present in the environment.
However, formaldehyde, in large amounts that far exceed the traces found in vaccines, can cause cancer.
The two types include:
You cant get the flu from either bang out of vaccine.
Antibodies neutralize the virus and activate immune cells that destroy it, protecting you from getting the flu.
Is the Flu Shot Safe?
The nasal spray has not been associated with any cases of GBS.
After getting any vaccine, you should watch for signs of a severeallergic reaction.
If you have a severe allergic reaction to the flu shot, you shouldnt get vaccinated.
Egg Allergies
you could get a flu shot even if you have anegg allergy.
Talk with your healthcare provider if youre concerned about an egg allergy.
They can determine if a routine flu shot is safe for you or recommend a non-egg-based vaccine.
In Children
Most children ages 6 months and older should get an annual flu vaccine.
Side effects in children are typically as mild as those in adults.
The nasal spray flu vaccine is approved for most children and adults between the ages of 2 and 49.
They shouldnt get the nasal spray flu vaccine.
The regular flu shot is safe and effective for older adults.
However, vaccines dont always prompt a strong immune response among people in this age group.
Learn when to get the flu shot and other flu prevention tips.
If you arent able to get vaccinated by the end of October, dont skip it.
Summary
The flu vaccine is safe and effective for most people in protecting against the flu virus.
A Word From Verywell
The flu shot has been used safely in the U.S. since the 1940s.
It can protect you from catching, spreading, or getting severe complications from the seasonal influenza virus.
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