Can getting your flu vaccine cause you to start feeling sick?
It's understandable to wonder if your flu shot is making you feel unwell. While the flu vaccine itself cannot give you the flu, some people do experience mild side effects like fever, chills, or body aches for a day or two after vaccination.
However, since you have Show Full Answer
Can getting your flu vaccine cause you to start feeling sick?
It's understandable to wonder if your flu shot is making you feel unwell. While the flu vaccine itself cannot give you the flu, some people do experience mild side effects like fever, chills, or body aches for a day or two after vaccination.
However, since you have lupus, there are a few other important things to consider:
Common vaccine side effects:
* Mild fever
* Temporary body aches
* Fatigue
* Soreness at the injection site
Lupus-related concerns:
If you're taking immunosuppressive medications for lupus, these drugs can increase your risk of infections. It's possible you may have picked up a respiratory infection, urinary tract infection, or another type of infection around the same time as your vaccination.
When to contact your doctor:
If your fever rises above 101 degrees Fahrenheit or doesn't go away after a couple of days, reach out to your rheumatologist or doctor right away. They can determine whether you're experiencing normal vaccine side effects, a lupus flare, or an infection that needs treatment.
It's always better to check in with your healthcare team when you have new or worsening symptoms, especially when you're on medications that affect your immune system.
December 18, 2025
Join
Your Privacy Choices
