Instagram Post Falsely Links Flu Vaccine to Polio
Quick Take
A popular Instagram post falsely claims “over 1,100 people died from reactions to the [flu] shot” in 2018, and suggests that the immunization gave some children polio. The flu vaccine cannot give anyone polio and there is no evidence to support the 1,100 figure.
Full Story
Just as flu season is kicking into gear in the U.S., an Instagram post is spreading false and misleading information about flu shots.
Coupled with a photo of someone receiving an injection, the post reads, “As flu season approaches, flu shots are being given at many locations. However, many are wondering if these shots are actually safe. In 2018, over 1,100 people died from reactions to the shot, and some children that received the shot were diagnosed with polio. One questionable ingredient found in the shots is mercury, an element that is highly poisonous if ingested.”
The post has racked up nearly 11,000 ‘likes’ in four days. But each of its claims is either unsubstantiated, false or misleading. The flu shot is the to protect against seasonal influenza, a viral disease that thousands and in other years kills tens of thousands of Americans.
