influenza virus vaccine - vial intramuscular, Flushield, Fluvirin, Fluzone
GENERIC NAME: INFLUENZA VIRUS VACCINE - VIAL INTRAMUSCULAR (IN-floo-EN-za)
BRAND NAME(S): Flushield, Fluvirin, Fluzone
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects |
Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes |
Missed Dose | Storage
USES: This medication is used to prevent infection by the influenza ("flu") virus. It is also called the seasonal flu shot. Influenza can cause serious illness (rarely death), especially in people at high risk from the infection (e.g., young children, the elderly, and people with chronic health problems). Vaccines work by causing the body to produce its own protection (antibodies) against the virus.The 2010-2011 flu vaccine provides protection against H1N1 (pandemic) influenza. A separate shot is not needed this year. People who received the 2009 H1N1 pandemic flu shot should still get the regular seasonal flu shot.Vaccination is the best method for preventing infection and decreasing the seriousness of illness if you become infected. The brand and dose of vaccine you receive depends on your age. Check with your healthcare provider to see which age group may be vaccinated with this product. Influenza vaccination is not recommended in infants less than 6 months old.As with any vaccine, it may not fully protect everyone who receives it. Since different types of flu viruses cause infection every flu season, usually a new vaccine is produced and given for each flu season.
HOW TO USE: Read the Vaccine Information Statement available from your health care provider before receiving the vaccine. If you have any questions, consult your health care provider.The medication is given by injection into a muscle by a health care professional. Adults usually receive the injection in the upper arm, and children receive it in the upper thigh.The vaccination is usually given in the time from September to November when the number of cases of influenza virus begins to increase (the start of "flu season"). Only one dose is required for people aged 9 years and older. Children under 9 years of age may receive a second dose depending on when the first dose was given. Discuss the dose schedule with your doctor.
SIDE EFFECTS: Soreness/redness/swelling/bruising at the injection site may occur and may last for up to 1-2 days. Fever, muscle aches, headache or weakness may also occur. If any of these effects continue beyond 2 days or become bothersome, inform your doctor.If your doctor has directed you to receive this vaccine, remember that he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.Tell your doctor immediately if any of these rare but very serious side effects occur: mental/mood changes, seizures.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.Contact your doctor for medical advice about side effects. The following numbers do not provide medical advice, but in the US, you may report side effects to the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) at 1-800-822-7967. In Canada, you may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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