Debunking six common flu shot myths

Dr. Jeff Powis, Infectious Diseases Physician at Michael Garron Hospital debunks six common myths about the flu shot. (Video: MGH)

MGH News interviewed Dr. Jeff Powis, Infectious Diseases Physician at Michael Garron Hospital (MGH) to debunk six common myths about the flu shot, including:

• The flu shot will give me the flu.
• I shouldn't get the flu shot if I'm pregnant.
• Healthy people don't need to get the flu shot.
• Getting the vaccine is all I need to do to protect myself from the flu.
• You don't need to get your flu shot every year.
• Children and seniors do not need to get vaccinated

Watch the video above to find out the answers!

Get your flu shot today

The vaccine is free, and it can be received through family doctors, participating pharmacies or public clinics.

• Click here to search for a clinic near you.
• Vaccination options available to the public (ages 5 years and older) within Michael Garron Hospital (825 Coxwell Avenue) include:
  • Pharmasave Flu “Pop Up Shop” on the first floor by Admitting (G wing)
    • ​​​​​​​Bring your HEALTH CARD
    • Monday - Friday:  9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 
  • Pharmasave Pharmacy ground floor location(C wing, first floor)

    • Bring your HEALTH CARD
    • Monday - Friday:  4:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
    • Saturday:  9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
    • Sunday:  10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
  • 840 Coxwell - Pharmasave (across the street from Michael Garron Hospital)
    • Bring your HEALTH CARD
    • Monday - Friday:  9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
  • 840 Coxwell - South East Family Health Team (across the street from Michael Garron Hospital)
    • STARTING Tuesday October 19
    • Bring your HEALTH CARD
    • Tuesday and Wednesday  4:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
    • Saturday 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon