The truth: The viruses in the flu shot are killed, so you can't get the flu from a flu shot. However, you might experience some minor side effects like:

• Soreness
• Redness, or swelling where the shot was given
• Low-grade fever
• Minor aches

The nasal spray version of the vaccine may lead to flu-like symptoms such as:

• Runny nose
• Headaches
• Muscle aches
• Fever

Most people don't experience side effects. For those who do, they last for a day or two — which is a lot better than suffering with the flu for two or three weeks. And don't forget influenza can lead to life-threatening complications like pneumonia. Of course, people who are very allergic to chicken eggs and those who've had a severe reaction to a previous flu shot shouldn't get the vaccine. But for most people, the flu shot's benefits far outweigh any risks.

To find out more, visit the CDC's Flu Vaccine Fact Page.