August is National Immunization Awareness Month; a great reminder of the importance of vaccines for overall good health. With a new school season fast approaching, flu season not far behind, and a new COVID-19 booster on the way, it’s important to know the facts about vaccines so that you can take the necessary steps to protect your health. Here are five myths you may have heard about vaccinations - and what the science says.
Myth #1: Vaccines aren't safe.
Fact: Vaccines are safe! Vaccines have prevented millions of cases of serious, debilitating, or even fatal illnesses. Vaccines are so effective that, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) two of the most feared viruses – smallpox and polio – have been virtually eliminated in the United States.
Myth #2: Vaccines have bad side effects.
Fact: While some side effects can occur, the CDC confirms that most people experience mild or minimal effects, if any. Common reactions like soreness where the shot was given, or low-grade fever typically subside within hours or a few days. But most people don't have any problems after getting vaccinated.
Rarely, some people may have an allergic reaction to one of the ingredients in a vaccine. This is why most providers ask people to wait at least 15 minutes after being vaccinated before leaving.
Myth #3: Vaccines cause autism.
Fact: Nope, vaccines don't cause autism, and many studies have shown that vaccines and autism aren't connected. In fact, the idea that vaccines cause autism came from a now-debunked study published in 1998 by Dr. Andrew Wakefield in the British medical journal, The Lancet. It was eventually revealed that Wakefield falsified data in his study and had strong financial incentives to lie. He subsequently had his medical license revoked for his ethical violations and misconduct. It’s important to note that his actions caused serious long-term damage by increasing doubts about vaccines that have contributed to the reemergence of diseases that could have been avoided.
Myth #4: Flu shots give you the flu.
Fact: Contrary to popular belief, flu shots won't make you sick with the flu. They're made to keep you safe from the flu. Minor side effects like slight discomfort or mild fever might occur, but the flu itself isn't caused by the vaccine.
Myth #5: Cleanliness and eating good food prevents disease.
Fact: Although having good hygiene (like handwashing) and a healthy diet is important, the World Health Organization (WHO) states, “looking at the actual incidence of disease over the years can leave little doubt of the significant direct impact vaccines have had, even in modern times.” Vaccines reduce the risks of getting a disease by working with your body’s natural defenses to build protection. Once exposed to one or more doses of a vaccine, we typically remain protected against a disease for years, decades or even a lifetime. They're like superheroes for your health!
Remember, vaccines help stop diseases and keep us all healthy. When lots of people get vaccines, it's harder for germs to spread. So, as school begins and the weather cools down, talk to your doctor about which vaccines you need to stay safe and strong.