Flu myths spread almost as fast as the virus itself — and believing them can leave you unprotected. Michael Nusbaum, MD FACS · FASMBS, of Cedar Knolls, NJ, sets the record straight on the most common misconceptions, starting with the biggest truth: it's never too late in the season to get your flu shot.
The Flu Myths Worth Debunking
There's a lot of misinformation about what the flu is, how it spreads and whether the vaccine works. Here are the misconceptions Dr. Nusbaum hears most often:
- Myth: The flu shot gives you the flu. It can't. The vaccine uses an inactivated or non-infectious virus. Mild soreness or a low-grade reaction is your immune system responding — not an infection.
- Myth: Going out in the cold gives you the flu. Cold air alone won't infect you. "However, if your body is stressed, it lowers your immune system and may make you more susceptible the next time you're exposed," explains Dr. Nusbaum.
- Myth: I'm healthy, so I don't need a flu shot. Healthy people still spread the flu to vulnerable family members. Vaccination protects the whole community.
- Myth: It's too late in the season to get vaccinated. Flu can circulate into spring. Getting the shot at any point still offers meaningful protection.
- Myth: Antibiotics will cure my flu. Influenza is a virus — antibiotics do nothing against it and may cause harm when used unnecessarily.
What Actually Protects You
"Proper hand hygiene is the most important means of preventing the spread of infection," Dr. Nusbaum notes. "Hand washing is like a do-it-yourself vaccine that stops the spread of germs." There's no silver bullet that makes you immune, but a few habits dramatically lower your risk:
- Get the annual flu vaccine — the single most effective step.
- Wash your hands thoroughly and often, especially before eating and after being in public.
- Avoid touching your face, where the virus enters through the eyes, nose and mouth.
- Stay home when sick to protect coworkers and family.
The CDC reinforces that everyday preventive actions — vaccination plus good hygiene — remain your best defense against influenza.
Support Your Immune System Year-Round
Because stress and run-down health make you more vulnerable, resilience starts long before flu season. Dr. Nusbaum emphasizes the fundamentals: quality sleep, hydration, balanced nutrition and stress management. When patients want extra support, our medspa and wellness services can help fill the gaps.
- IV drip infusions deliver hydration, vitamins and antioxidants directly — a popular option during high-stress, run-down stretches.
- Thyroid function testing can uncover fatigue and low resilience that lifestyle changes alone won't fix.
- Our broader anti-aging and wellness programs and hormone optimization help patients feel and function at their best.
A strong body is a resilient body. If you're feeling perpetually run-down, schedule a wellness visit at our Cedar Knolls office.
