flu.oregon.gov - Haven't had your flu shot?

Do you Know? Planning ahead can help protect you from the flu

flu.oregon.gov > Individual or a Family > Haven't had your flu shot?

Haven't had your flu shot?

Check all that apply to you:

I don't think it's urgent - the flu doesn't seem that dangerous.
Every year in the United States, on average, more than 200,000 people are hospitalized from flu-related complications, and about 36,000 people die from flu-related causes. In Oregon, since September 2009, nearly 70 people have died from H1N1 flu and over 1,300 have been hospitalized.

I just haven't gotten around to it – vaccine clinics haven't been convenient for me.
Supplies of H1N1 vaccine are now plentiful; you can probably be vaccinated at your local grocery store or drugstore while running errands. To find the location nearest you, visit our flu vaccine locator. The flu vaccine can also prevent lost work days and keep you from having to visit your doctor.

I'm worried a flu shot will give me the flu.
A flu shot cannot cause the flu. The viruses in flu shots are inactivated (killed), which means they cannot cause infection. In studies where some people got flu shots and others got saltwater shots, there were no differences in body aches, fever, cough, runny nose or sore throat. Some people with weakened immune systems can get the flu despite being vaccinated, but the vaccine still helps prevent complications.

I never get the flu.
Not everyone gets influenza each year, but some people may have it and be contagious without knowing it. Of the 5% to 20% of the population who get influenza each year, many never develop symptoms but are still contagious. Young, healthy people are especially likely to have influenza infections without feeling ill. Getting vaccinated lowers your chances of getting sick and protects others in your community.

I'm afraid the flu shot could be harmful.
Clinical trials have shown that the H1N1 vaccine is both safe and effective. The FDA has licensed it. It is produced exactly the same way the seasonal flu vaccine is produced every year; it is simply a new virus strain. Doctors and scientists believe the risk of the flu, especially for pregnant women, children and people with health conditions, is higher than any risk that might come from the vaccine.

I'm on my way to get it right now.
I'm on my way to get it right now.

Site Links

About Us
Contact Us
Individual or a Family
- Prevent
- Learn
- Vaccinate
- Care
- Seniors
Health Professionals and Partners
Schools and Childcare
Businesses and Employers
Multi-Language

Hotline

Flu Vaccine Locator Hotline
1-800-978-3040

Oregon.gov Public Health - Flu Information

Haven't had your flu shot?

Site Links

Hotline

Contact Us:

Quick Links

Footer Links

Text Only Options