What if you get the flu right after getting a tattoo?

The symptoms from getting a tattoo after a flu shot should be no different than they would have been anyway. You'll have the same risks of infection from a tattoo as you would have without having had a flu shot beforehand.

Obviously, you shouldn't put a tattoo in the area where the shot was given until all signs of a reaction to the shot and sore arm have had an opportunity to come and go. So wait at least a couple of weeks or after there is no swelling, redness, or pain/soreness (whichever is later) to get one put right there. Having it put someplace else will have no different symptoms than usual just because you have had a flu shot.

If you would get the tattoo before getting the flu shot, and if your tattoo were infected, your health care professional may suggest waiting until your body isn't fighting off something else before you use any vaccines.