re: .

Got flu once years ago, and it was "just shoot me" awful.

Had a shot for last many years and no flu .. except once.

Last year I had a fever and mild symptoms. Let the Doc check it out just in case. Nasal swab came back for flu. "You're kidding," I said, because I felt fine, like a mild cold.

Doc said, and I've read elsewhere, that even if the flu shot does not prevent the flu it can make symptoms less severe and shorter-lasting.

Never had side effects of the shot until this year. A few hours after getting the shot, I developed a fever of about 102 that lasted for a couple of hours, then went away. Someone else I know got achy for a few hours the next day. Must be strong this year.