This means getting it when you have mild symptoms may be better than putting it off until you recover.
Being moderately or severely ill, however, temporarily weakens the immune system.
This means it may not have the resources to also produce an immune response against the flu.
Verywell / Cindy Chung
How Does the Flu Shot Work?
Vaccinesare designed to stimulate a protective immune response.
Theflu shotcontainsinfluenza (flu)viruses that have been killed.
Get our printable guide for your next doctor’s appointment to help you ask the right questions.
These are calledinactivated vaccines.
These antibodies recognize and defend against the specific viruses you were injected with.
A person’s response to a vaccine may not always be strong enough to provide ample immune protection.
Other things besides illness can undermine the response, such as undergoingchemotherapy, takingimmunosuppressants, or havinguntreated HIV.
All these are associated with a weakened immune response.
Healthcare providers also recommend avoiding alcohol, which may suppress immune activity.
When Should You Get the Flu Shot?
Havingcold symptomsisn’t necessarily a reason to avoid the flu shot.
Most people, even children, can get the shot if their symptoms are mild.
If in doubt, call your healthcare provider or your child’s pediatrician for advice.
Talk to your healthcare provider before getting vaccinated if you have had GBS.
Summary
You don’t need to postpone your flu shot for a mild illness.
If in doubt, contact your healthcare provider.
Get our printable guide for your next doctor’s appointment to help you ask the right questions.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Influenza (flu) vaccine.
Ohio State University, BuckMD Blog.Can I get the flu shot if Im sick?
What if I have a fever?
Chan School of Public Health.Nutrition and immunity.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Vaccines when your child is sick.
RR-1):128. doi:10.15585/mmwr.rr7101a1.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Who should and who shouldn’t get a flu vaccine.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Flu Vaccine Safety Information.
