Dr. Larry talks the importance of getting a flu shot

OAKLAND, Calif. (KTVU) - The kids are back in school and winter is right around the corner - and with that comes cold and flu season.

According to the Centers for Disease and Control, flu activity generally begins to increase in October.

Dr. Larry Burchett tells KTVU he advises parents to have their children get the flu shot versus the nasal flu mist. He says the nasal flu mist doesn't work as well.

There are some misconceptions that the flu shot will give you the flu. Burchett says, "that's not true. There are some side effects - it hurts. I got mine yesterday and my shoulder hurts a little bit. Some people can get a little bit of a fever but it's not going to give you influenza. You know, where you have body aches - you feel terrible - cold and sick from the flu."

Burchett says getting the flu shot is not only a benefit to you - but you can help save lives by getting it.

There's also good news for parents of kids who have come down with a lot of school yard illnesses. Burchett says it can help them have a better immune system later in life.