It’s natural to want the people you care about to stay healthy. And getting a yearly flu shot is one of the best ways they can protect themselves. But what if someone you love is hesitant or nervous about the vaccine – or just refuses to get it?
You may want to help them make an informed and healthy choice but bringing up the flu shot can be tricky. Anna Duffey, a licensed social worker with Banner Health, said it’s normal to feel anxious or emotional when someone you care about is skeptical.
If you’re hoping to encourage friends, family members or coworkers to get their flu shot, there are a few simple strategies you can use to make the conversation easier. And you can do it in a way that is respectful, based in facts and supportive, and without tension or arguments.
Why are some people reluctant to get flu vaccines?
Before you have a conversation, it helps to understand where your loved one is coming from. Duffey said people skip or avoid the flu shot for lots of reasons. It could be:
- Fear of needles
- Worries about side effects
- Thinking the flu isn’t a big deal
“People might have heard myths about the flu vaccine,” Duffey said. “Understanding what’s behind their concern helps you meet them where they are.”
What’s the best way to start the conversation?
It’s important to keep your tone open and gentle when you bring up the subject. Instead of launching into statistics, start the conversation by sharing why you got your flu shot this year:
- “I got mine last week because I’ve got travel coming up and can’t afford to get sick.”
- “I didn’t want to miss work.”
- “I want to protect a new baby.” (Or an aging parent, or a loved one with a health condition)
You can also bring up how getting the flu vaccine is a normal part of your fall routine:
- “We all got ours after picking up groceries the other day.”
- “My coworkers and I went together at lunch.”
- “I took my parents to get theirs last week and got mine at the same time.”
Mentioning it in passing can help make it seem like flu shots are just a normal part of staying well — because they are.
“From there, you might say, ‘Have you thought about getting your flu shot this year?’ or ‘Is there anything that worries you about vaccines?’” Duffey said.
Try to listen more than you talk and validate the other person’s feelings, even if you don’t agree. If you push too hard or use scare tactics, it might make them dig in their heels.
What can you say that may help?
Providing clear facts can make a difference. Duffey offered some points that you may want to share, depending on what you think might make an impact:
- Vaccines are safe and effective.
- The flu vaccine can’t give you the flu.
- Flu vaccines have been studied for decades and they make it less likely that you’ll get a serious illness or be hospitalized.
- You are protecting your loved ones, the elderly and young people who may be vulnerable and at risk.
- You are helping your community stay healthier.
- Your co-workers and your family need and depend on you daily.
- Vaccines are affordable, while diseases are expensive.
How can you respect their concerns and stay open?
If someone is hesitant, don’t rush to correct them. Instead, ask what’s on their mind. “Most people who are concerned about flu shots are worried about safety or effectiveness, haven’t been educated about flu shots or have heard misinformation about vaccines,” Duffey said. “We need to ask what their concerns are and listen without judgment.”
Focus on building trust and sharing facts. Remember that many people have deeply held personal beliefs about vaccines. Those beliefs can come from their cultural, religious, philosophical or personal background.
If you’re not sure how to answer specific questions, suggest looking it up together. You might want to try:
Organizations like these recommend a flu shot every year for everyone 6 months old or older, unless their provider suggests otherwise.
How can you keep the conversation going without pressure?
Encouraging a loved one to get vaccinated may take more than one conversation. Try not to get frustrated if someone isn’t ready right away. Sometimes people just need a little time to think or they want to hear from their health care provider.
Keeping things relaxed, positive and free of judgment makes it more likely your message will get through. Thank your loved one for hearing your thoughts and let them know you care about their health.
If someone is nervous about pain or side effects, reassure them that most people only feel a little sore or have minor symptoms that go away quickly.
When should you offer help?
Sometimes, scheduling and logistics are the biggest obstacles. “Offering to help make an appointment, drive them to the clinic or even go with them for the shot can make a huge difference,” Duffey said.
“You might think it’s easy for people to make appointments, but many physicians’ offices don’t offer vaccines. People may need to get them in pharmacies on certain days and might have to make appointments online,” Duffey said.
You might offer to help with childcare so a parent can get a vaccine or help someone get their vaccine while they’re taking care of other errands.
What if you’re concerned about people at high risk?
If someone has health conditions that put them at higher risk, or if you’re worried about other high-risk people in your home or workplace, it’s OK to share how flu vaccination helps protect everyone. Let people know you’re asking because you care, not because you want to control what they do. Framing the conversation from a place of love is powerful.
How can you help your loved one learn more?
If you or someone you care about needs more information, encourage them to reach out to a health care provider. Doctors, nurses and trusted medical websites can answer questions about who should get a flu shot, safety and side effects. Sometimes hearing the facts from a professional can make all the difference.
To connect with an expert about flu vaccines or to get help encouraging a loved one, reach out to a Banner Health provider.
You don’t have to be a health expert to make a difference. Just being willing to listen, share your story and offer support may help someone make the right decision.
Schedule your flu shot online today with Banner Urgent Care.
