Flu Vaccines
Two types of influenza vaccine are available
– an inactivated vaccine and a live vaccine. Both vaccines
contain the same three influenza strains, and both vaccines are made
using eggs.
The effectiveness of either type of flu vaccine
is dependent on the age and health status of the individual
receiving it, and on how well the viruses in the vaccine match
the viruses circulating in the community. The closer the match
between the viruses, the more effective the vaccine is at
preventing illness and death.
Types of Vaccine
- Inactivated
Vaccine – Flu Shot
Inactivated influenza vaccine has been used for many years. It is given by injection
and it contains killed influenza virus, thus
ensuring that people cannot get the disease from the shot. It can
be administered to people six months of age and older.
- Live
Intranasal Vaccine – FluMistTM
Live, intranasal influenza vaccine (trade-name
FluMistTM) was licensed in 2003. FluMist contains
live, attenuated (weakened) influenza virus. It is
sprayed into the nostrils rather than injected into the
muscle. It can be administered to healthy people between 2 and 49 years of
age.
When should I receive a flu vaccine?
- The best time to get either flu vaccine is
between the middle of October and the middle of November. The
flu season can peak anywhere from December through March, but
it most often peaks in February. So getting the vaccine in
December, or even later, can still be beneficial in most
years.
- Influenza viruses change often. Therefore,
influenza vaccines are updated every year, and an annual
vaccination is needed.
- Children under nine years of age getting either
influenza vaccine for the first time must receive two doses a
month apart in
order to be protected.
- Either flu vaccine can be given at the same
time as other vaccines. This includes other live vaccines,
such as MMR or chickenpox.
Who should consult a physician first?
- The following people should talk with a doctor
before getting either flu vaccine:
- Since both vaccines are made using eggs,
anyone who has ever had a serious allergic reaction to eggs or
to a previous dose of influenza vaccine.
- If you have a fever or are severely ill at the
time the vaccination is scheduled, you should probably wait
until you recover before getting influenza vaccine.
- Anyone who has had Guillain-Barré syndrome in the
past should consult with a physician before getting the influenza
vaccine.
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