What to do if i never had a flu shot and this year i have to have one. what should i expect?

Flu protection: The flu shot has inactivated virus- so it will not infect you with the flu. If you have reactions to the shot they usually resolve within one to two days. Side effects can include a low grade fever, aches & pain, and localized swelling, redness and pain at the shot site. Some people have had allergic reactions to the flu vaccine.