Author: JJA
HOW IT'S SUPPLIED:
Comes as liquid for injection (shot)
HOW IT WORKS:
This killed virus vaccine helps prevent disease caused by influenza A and B viruses. It contains 3 killed viruses which, after entering the body, cause the body to develop an immune response against these viruses that helps protect the body against the flu for the rest of the year.
THINGS TO DISCUSS WITH YOUR DOCTOR:
* The viruses in the flu shot are killed (inactivated), so you cannot get the flu from a flu shot.
* Intramuscular (flu shot) vaccine can be given to children 6 months old and older.
* Side effects include soreness, redness or swelling where the shot was given, headache, low grade fever and/or muscle aches.
* Should not be used in anyone with an allergy to any part of the vaccine, (including eggs); or in people who have a history of Guillain-Barre syndrome.
* Children less than 13 years old may be given ? dose at a time (split virus vaccine) at least 4 weeks apart to reduce their chances of having side effects.
* The 2010-11 vaccine contains the same influenza A (H1N1) 2009 strain which was used in the 2009 pandemic H1N1 monovalent vaccine.
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