Is it safe to get a flu shot if I have heart disease?

Flu shots are safe for most people who have heart disease.

Flu vaccines are usually injected by needle into the upper extremity. Some people develop short-lived side effects, such as mild arm soreness at the injection site, a mild fever or muscle aches.

The flu vaccine that can be given as a nasal spray (FluMist) isn't recommended for people with heart disease. This type of flu vaccine is made with live virus that can trigger flu symptoms in some people.

Talk to your doctor before getting a flu shot if:

• You're allergic to eggs
• You've had a serious allergic reaction to the flu vaccine in the past
• You have a history of Guillain-Barre syndrome that developed after receiving a flu shot
• You're sick with a fever at the time you plan to get a flu shot