7. I never get sick, so I don’t need a flu shot

You might have a good history, but this doesn’t guarantee a flu-free future. The influenza strains change and evolve over time, which means you’re at risk every year if you believe flu shot myths like this one.

Recent studies show that vaccination reduces the risk of flu illness by between 40% and 60% among the overall population during seasons when the vaccine protects against the season’s predominant strains. Moreover, the CDC has concluded that there was a 60% reduction in doctor visits during the flu season among those who were vaccinated.

In a nutshell, a flu-free history is a combination of a working immune system and a bit of luck. Take the luck out of the scheme, and chances are you’ll catch the virus, even if your immunity system is strong.