When you get a flu shot, you may experience some mild discomfort. However, following the safety instructions will lessen any discomfort.
What to avoid after flu shot depends on the vaccine. Typical seasonal flu shots don’t require any special precautions. However, this isn’t the case for other shots.
Read more about what to avoid after getting a flu shot by continuing to the sections below.
Strenuous Physical Activity
After a flu shot, it is best to avoid any strenuous physical activities following a flu shot. Any activities that require heavy physical exertion can strain the body. This potentially makes the body more prone to illness and side effects from the vaccine itself.
Additionally, vigorous physical activity may cause the body to become overheated and can cause exhaustion which could further reduce the effectiveness of the flu shot. Therefore, it is important to refrain from strenuous physical activity for up to 24 hours after receiving a flu shot to make sure that the body can relax and efficiently absorb the vaccine.
Touching or Rubbing the Injection Site
Touching or rubbing the injection site after a flu shot should be avoided for several reasons. Firstly, it can disrupt the body’s natural healing process by causing further irritation and infection, making it more vulnerable to bacteria and viruses. It can also disrupt the effects of the vaccine by introducing bacteria or viruses to the injection site.
In some cases, it could even lead to further spread of the virus the vaccine was meant to protect against. Furthermore, rubbing the injection site can cause further pain and discomfort around the area and can even cause the area to become red and swollen. Therefore, to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the flu vaccine, it is best to keep hands away from the shot area and instead allow the body to heal naturally for the greatest results.
Drinking Alcohol
Alcohol weakens your body’s immunity due to its toxic effects on your liver. Since your body is in a weakened state due to recent immunization, drinking alcohol can further weaken it. Alcohol can make you more prone to contract the flu virus or other infectious diseases.
Additionally, alcohol may increase the risk of long-term effects of the flu vaccination, such as soreness or inflammation at the injection site, as well as fatigue or fever. To ensure the best results of the flu shot are achieved, it is wise to avoid drinking alcohol for at least 24 hours following immunization.
Skipping Hydration
A good rule of thumb is to drink 8 or more glasses of water throughout the day. Skipping hydration can lead to intense side effects, such as:
- fever
- body aches
- vomiting
- anaphylaxis
If hydration is skipped, the body won’t have enough fluids to properly process the vaccine, leading to even further complications. If you feel some discomfort, visit your local onsite health services or contact your doctor for treatment. While some discomfort after the flu shot is normal, severe pain or any flu-like symptoms should be treated right away.
Know What to Avoid After Flu Shot
To avoid any unwanted side effects, it’s best to take a few preventative measures after receiving a flu shot. Be mindful of the type of activities you engage in, make sure you get ample rest, and drink plenty of fluids.
Taking these extra steps by being aware of what to avoid after flu shot can help you get the most out of your vaccination. As always, consult your doctor if you have any lingering concerns.
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