Vaccine FAQs

Helping Hansford make the best health care decisions

Hansford County Hospital District is committed to providing our community with accurate, trusted, and up-to-date vaccine information and delivering excellent preventative care like the flu vaccine.

Flu Vaccine FAQs

Is the flu shot safe?

Yes, flu shots are closely monitored by the FDA and CDC each year to ensure they are safe.

Hundreds of millions of Americans have safely received flu vaccines for more than 50 years, and there has been extensive research supporting the safety of flu vaccines.

Do flu vaccines work?

Flu vaccines are safe and effective, reducing the risk of needing to go to the doctor by 40 – 60 percent. If you do get the flu, having the vaccine can make your illness less severe.

Can a flu shot give you the flu?

Flu shots cannot give you the flu, although some people may have mild side effects.

Does the flu shot have side effects?

Flu vaccines can cause side effects for some people. These side effects are usually mild and go away on their own in a short time. These can include soreness or redness where the shot was given, a headache, muscle aches, and fatigue. The flu itself is usually much worse than side effects the vaccine can cause.

How long does protection from the flu last with a flu shot?

Your body’s immunity to the influenza virus decreases over time, which is why most health experts recommend getting a flu shot before the end of October.

Who should get a flu shot?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other health experts recommend that everyone age six months and older get vaccinated against flu each year.

Can I get a flu shot and COVID-19 vaccine at the same time?

Yes, you can get both shots at the same time. There is no required or recommended waiting period between receiving the flu and COVID-19 vaccines.

Can pregnant people get a flu shot?

Yes. Influenza is more likely to cause illness that results in hospitalization in pregnant people compared to people who are not pregnant, and influenza also may be harmful for a developing baby. A flu shot helps protect both the mother and the baby from contracting the flu.

Can young children get a flu shot?

Yes. Flu vaccines are safe and effective for young children, and children under five have a higher risk of developing flu-related complications including pneumonia, dehydration, and brain dysfunctions.

Masks must be worn at all times in the clinic. If you do not have one, we’ll provide one.
When you call to make an appointment, your visit will be categorized as “well” or “sick.”
“Well” visits are assigned to one area of the clinic. “Sick” visits are assigned to another.
When you arrive for your appointment, please call us and wait in your car for instructions.
The physician on call for the emergency department will see patients for “sick” visits. Other clinic providers will provide “well” visits.