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A 35-year-old male asked:

In the years that i take an annual flu-shot, i don't get common cold too. is there a link ?

2 doctor answers6 doctors weighed in
Dr. Geoffrey Rutledge
Internal Medicine 39 years experience
Vaccine prevents flu: The influenza vaccine is formulated each year to protect against the strains of influenza that are likely to cause problems that year. There are many other viruses that cause colds that are not protected against by the flu vaccine, so, sadly, you may still get a cold or series of colds during the flu season. To reduce your risk, keep yourself healthy, eat a good diet, and get rest and exercise!
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Dr. Malaika Witter Hewitt
ENT and Head and Neck Surgery 25 years experience
No: The influenza vaccine is specific for the influenza virus and its strains. The common cold is usually due to rhinovirus, and often other viruses. If one contracts the influenza virus, s/he will be much more ill than with the common cold.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.

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Last updated Oct 8, 2018

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