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Person getting a Band-Aid placed on their arm after a shot

What Are the Flu Shot Side Effects for the 2025-2026 Flu Season?

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Most patients will not experience any side effects from the flu vaccine. But like any medical product, vaccines may cause some mild side effects that typically go away within a day or two. Common side effects from the flu vaccine include:

  • Headache
  • Fatigue
  • Cough
  • Low fever
  • Arm soreness, redness or swelling lasting a couple of days.

Fewer than 1 in a million people experience severe allergic reactions to the flu vaccine. If someone does have a severe allergic reaction, this would most likely happen within a few minutes of receiving the vaccine, which is why it is best to wait a few minutes at your doctor’s office after receiving any vaccine. Signs of an allergic reaction include:

  • Difficulty breathing
  • Hoarseness or wheezing
  • Swelling around the eyes or lips
  • Hives
  • Paleness
  • Weakness
  • A fast heartbeat or dizziness

If you believe you are having a severe allergic reaction and you are not at your doctor’s office, call 911 and get to the nearest hospital.

The flu vaccine can lessen the severity of illness in the very young and very old, along with those with conditions such as hypertension, diabetes and chronic respiratory illnesses. Since the flu vaccine can decrease the severity of the illness, particularly those who are medically vulnerable, the flu vaccine can lead to decreased hospitalization and mortality. Getting a flu shot is a personal decision and should be discussed with your doctor or healthcare provider. 

Can you get the flu vaccine if you are allergic to eggs?

People who have experienced only hives after exposure to egg can get any licensed flu vaccine that is otherwise appropriate for their age and health.

People who have symptoms other than hives after exposure to eggs, such as angioedema (swelling that may occur in the face, tongue, larynx, abdomen or arms and legs), respiratory distress, lightheadedness or recurrent emesis; or who have needed epinephrine or another emergency medical intervention, can also get any licensed flu vaccine that is otherwise appropriate for their age and health. 

However, the vaccine should be given in a medical setting and be supervised by a health care provider who can recognize and manage severe allergic conditions. (Settings include hospitals, clinics, health departments and physician offices). 

 

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