A: You cannot get the flu from a flu shot. The viruses in the flu shot are killed (inactivated). Some minor side effects that could occur are: soreness, redness, or swelling where the shot was given, as well as low-grade fever and aches.

If these problems occur, they begin soon after the shot and usually last 1 to 2 days. Almost all people who receive influenza vaccine have no serious problems from it. However, on rare occasions, flu vaccination can cause serious problems, such as severe allergic reactions. As of July 1, 2005, people who think that they have been injured by the flu shot can file a claim for compensation from the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP).

A: Before considering a flu shot consult with your health care provider. People who should not get flu shots include children younger than six months of age (influenza vaccine is not approved for this age group) and anyone who has had a moderate to severe illness with a fever (they should wait until they recover to get vaccinated). Other people who should not get flu shots: anyone who had had a severe allergy to chicken eggs, anyone who has had a severe reaction to an influenza vaccination, and anyone who has developed Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) within 6 weeks of getting an influenza vaccine.

A: Anyone who wants to minimize their chances of getting the flu can get vaccinated. People who should get vaccinated each year are:

1. Children aged 6 months up to their 19th birthday
2. Pregnant women
3. People 50 years of age and older
4. People of any age with certain chronic medical conditions
5. People who live in nursing homes and other long-term care facilities
6. People who live with or care for those at high risk for complications from flu, including healthcare workers, household contacts of persons at high risk for complications from the flu, household contacts and out-of-home caregivers of children less than six months of age (these children are too young to be vaccinated).