Information about flu shots

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Answering popular questions about flu shots                  [Bulletin date: September 20, 2026] 

  1. Can the flu be deadly? Tens of thousands of people die every year from the influenza flu virus or its complications. Flu shots can lower these statistics. 
  2. Is the flu the same every year? The flu virus mutates every year and therefore new vaccines are needed.
  3. Does the Catholic Church endorse flu shots and other immunizations? The Church states we are responsible to prevent the transmission of communicable diseases, especially to those who are most vulnerable such as the young, the elderly, and those who are ill with compromised immune systems.
  4. Are flu shots made from human embryos? Chicken embryos are used to manufacture flu shots, not human embryos. 
  5. What is “herd immunity” and how does it help? When everyone (the “herd”) gets immunized, the spread of the flu is minimized. The more immunized, the greater the herd immunity which lessens the spread to others. 
  6. Can you get the flu from the flu shot? The flu shot is made with an inactive virus and therefore you cannot get the flu from the shot. Side effects (aches, low-grade fever, or runny nose) are not the flu. 
  7. How long does it take for the shot to work? A minimum of two weeks is needed to build up immunity. It is recommended to get your shot before the end of October each year. 

Flu shots save lives, so be sure to immunize. Stop by our flu shot clinic next weekend and the following weekend.  Please see the bulletin for dates and times.


 

Linda M. Walsh, RN, BSN
Pastoral Care Director
St. Ann Parish Nurse
770-552-6400 x6019 

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