Common myths about flu vaccine busted

A researcher has dispelled most common myths and misconceptions about flu vaccine, explaining why every eligible person should be vaccinated against the seasonal flu.

Dr. Jennifer Caudle, an assistant professor of Family Medicine at the Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine, revealed that among the excuses she hears most often: patients are afraid, they think the vaccine will hurt, make them sick or that it simply doesn't work.

Caudle said she understands their concerns, suggesting that the vaccine is safe, effective and essential "to nipping the seasonal bug in the bud."

Perhaps the most common myth associated with the vaccine is that the shot can actually cause the flu. In her article, Caudle recounts that, when she was a medical student, she became ill a few days after receiving her shot.

She notes, however, that it is simply not possible to get influenza from the flu, explaining that, in her case, she may have contracted the virus before the vaccination took full effect or she likely had another type of virus that caused flu-like symptoms.

In countering flu myths, Caudle also points out that "Getting vaccinated not only protects you, but also helps protect others- infants, the elderly and people with certain chronic medical conditions- who may not be able to fight off illness as well as you."

The study was published on CNN.com.