Influvax

Influvax Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Influvax is a brand name. Its generic name is Inactivated Influenza Vaccine.

Introduction to Influvax

Inactivated influenza vaccine, also known as the flu shot, is an immunization given to people six months of age and older to protect them against infection from Influenza virus. It decreases the risk of developing serious complications caused by the virus, such as hospitalization, pneumonia, and even death. The vaccine is usually given once a year, during the fall season in the United States.

Uses for Influvax

Inactivated influenza vaccine is used to prevent infection caused by influenza virus. It is recommended to receive the vaccine at least 2 weeks before the start of the flu season and annually to maintain immunity.

Mechanism of Action

Inactivated influenza vaccine works by stimulating the body's immune system to make antibodies that recognize and defend against the virus. These antibodies then protect people from infection when they are exposed to the virus, by attacking and killing the virus before it has an opportunity to take hold.

How Long Does It Take To Work?

It generally takes about two weeks for the vaccine to develop protective immunity, meaning it may take two weeks for the body to develop protection from the virus after receiving the vaccine.

Absorption

The inactivated influenza vaccine is injected subcutaneously (under the skin) or intramuscularly (into a muscle). Once injected, the vaccine is absorbed into the bloodstream, where it stimulates the body's immune system to produce antibodies that protect against infection.

Route of Elimination

The vaccine is not metabolized in the body, and it is excreted through the urine and feces.

Dosage

The amount of vaccine that should be given to one person is determined by age and other factors, such as existing health conditions. The vaccine is available in single dose or multiple dose vials. Generally, a single 0.5 mL dose is recommended for adults and children.

Administration

The inactivated influenza vaccine is typically administered via an intramuscular injection. It should be injected into the muscle in the upper arm. It can also be administered subcutaneously in the arm.

Side Effects

Common side effects of the inactivated influenza vaccine include soreness, redness, and swelling at the injection site, headache, body aches, and low-grade fever. These side effects typically resolve within a few days.

Toxicity

The inactivated influenza vaccine is considered to be safe and the chance of serious side effects and toxicity is very low.

Precautions

People who are allergic to eggs, the ingredients of the vaccine, or who have had a severe allergic reaction to a previous dose of influenza vaccine should not receive the vaccine. People who have a fever should wait until the fever has gone away before receiving the vaccine.

Interactions

The inactivated influenza vaccine does not interact with other medications, herbs, supplements, or foods.

Disease Interaction

The inactivated influenza vaccine does not interact with any known diseases.

Drug Interactions

The inactivated influenza vaccine does not interact with any known drugs.

Food Interactions

The inactivated influenza vaccine does not interact with any known foods.

Pregnancy Use

The safety of the inactivated influenza vaccine during pregnancy has not been established. However, it is generally recommended that pregnant women receive the vaccine to protect them from influenza, as the disease can be more severe in pregnant women.

Lactation Use

The safety of the inactivated influenza vaccine during lactation has not been established. However, it is generally recommended that lactating women receive the vaccine to protect them from influenza.

Acute Overdose

There is no known risk associated with receiving more than the recommended dose of the vaccine. However, it is recommended to speak to a healthcare provider if more than the recommended dose has been received.

Contraindication

The inactivated influenza vaccine should not be given to people who are allergic to eggs, the ingredients of the vaccine, or who have had a severe allergic reaction to a previous dose of the vaccine.

Use Directions

The vaccine should be injected into the muscle in the upper arm. It can also be injected subcutaneously in the arm. Be sure to follow the directions on the package and to use a new needle and syringe for each injection.

Storage Conditions

The inactivated influenza vaccine should be stored in a refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C. Do not freeze the vaccine. Opened vials should be used within seven days and unused vials should be discarded according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Volume of Distribution

The volume of distribution for the inactivated influenza vaccine is not known.

Half Life

The half life of the inactivated influenza vaccine is not known.

Clearance

The clearance of the inactivated influenza vaccine is not known.

Here you find in details version of Influvax

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Influvax

1. What is the inactivated influenza vaccine?

The inactivated influenza vaccine (also known as a "flu shot") is an injection given to help protect against infection by influenza viruses. It contains inactivated (killed) forms of the viruses that cause influenza. It can help protect against both influenza A and influenza B viruses.

2. Who should get the inactivated influenza vaccine?

The inactivated influenza vaccine is recommended for everyone 6 months of age and older, with few exceptions. Certain people, such as those with an egg allergy, should talk to their health care provider about which flu vaccine is best for them.

3. When should I get the inactivated influenza vaccine?

It is best to get the inactivated influenza vaccine as soon as it becomes available in your area, usually by early October, because it takes about two weeks for the body to build immunity to the virus in the vaccine.

4. Is the inactivated influenza vaccine effective?

Yes, the inactivated influenza vaccine is typically 50 to 60 percent effective in healthy children and adults. Vaccination is particularly important for people who are at high risk of serious complications from influenza.

5. How long does protection from the inactivated influenza vaccine last?

Protection from the inactivated influenza vaccine typically lasts for about one year. Vaccination is recommended each year to ensure ongoing protection.

6. Are there any side effects from the inactivated influenza vaccine?

The inactivated influenza vaccine may cause side effects, such as redness or soreness where the injection was given, mild fever, and muscle aches. Most side effects are mild and go away within a few days.

7. Is the inactivated influenza vaccine safe for pregnant women?

Yes, the inactivated influenza vaccine is safe for pregnant women. In fact, it is important for pregnant women to receive the vaccine to help protect them and their unborn baby from influenza.

8. Is the inactivated influenza vaccine safe for children?

Yes, the inactivated influenza vaccine is safe for children 6 months of age and older. It is recommended that everyone 6 months of age and older receive the vaccine each year.

9. Are there any risks associated with the inactivated influenza vaccine?

The inactivated influenza vaccine is generally safe and well-tolerated. However, some people may experience minor side effects, such as redness or soreness at the injection site, mild fever, and muscle aches.

10. Can I get the inactivated influenza vaccine if I have a cold?

Yes, the inactivated influenza vaccine can be given even if you have a cold. However, if you are very ill, your doctor may decide to delay the vaccine until you are feeling better.

11. Who should not get the inactivated influenza vaccine?

Most people 6 months of age and older can safely receive the inactivated influenza vaccine. However, certain people, such as those with severe allergies to the vaccine or its components and those with a history of Guillain-Barre Syndrome, should not get the vaccine.

12. Can the inactivated influenza vaccine cause the flu?

No, the inactivated influenza vaccine cannot cause the flu because it contains only inactivated (killed) forms of the virus. It is possible to develop flu-like symptoms after the vaccine, but this is due to the body’s response to the vaccine and is not a sign of influenza infection.

13. Should I get the inactivated influenza vaccine if I have had the flu?

Yes, if you have had the flu, you should still get the inactivated influenza vaccine. The vaccine can help protect you from future influenza infection, and it may even help reduce the severity of the symptoms if you do get infected.

14. Can I get the inactivated influenza vaccine if I have already had influenza this season?

Yes, you can still get the inactivated influenza vaccine even if you have already had influenza this season. Although the vaccine won’t provide any benefit after you are already infected, it can help protect you from future infections.

15. Is the inactivated influenza vaccine effective against all types of influenza virus?

No, the inactivated influenza vaccine is not effective against all types of influenza virus. The vaccine is typically effective against most strains of influenza A and influenza B that are circulating in the population. However, it may not be effective against new or rare strains of influenza viruses.

16. What is the difference between the inactivated influenza vaccine and the live attenuated influenza vaccine?

The inactivated influenza vaccine contains inactivated (killed) forms of the viruses that cause influenza. It is given as an injection. The live attenuated influenza vaccine (LAIV) is made from a weakened form of the influenza virus. It is given as a nasal spray.

17. Can I get the inactivated influenza vaccine if I am pregnant?

Yes, the inactivated influenza vaccine is safe for pregnant women. In fact, it is important for pregnant women to receive the vaccine to help protect them and their unborn baby from influenza.

18. Can I get the inactivated influenza vaccine if I have an egg allergy?

Yes, the inactivated influenza vaccine can be given to people with an egg allergy. However, you should talk to your health care provider about which flu vaccine is best for you.

19. If I had an egg allergy as a child, can I still get the inactivated influenza vaccine now?

Yes, if you had an egg allergy as a child, you can still get the inactivated influenza vaccine now. However, you should talk to your health care provider before receiving the vaccine.

20. Is it safe to get the inactivated influenza vaccine if I have a weakened immune system?

Yes, it is generally safe to get the inactivated influenza vaccine if you have a weakened immune system. However, it is important to talk to your health care provider before receiving the vaccine to make sure it is safe for you.

21. Can I get the inactivated influenza vaccine if I have a fever?

Yes, the inactivated influenza vaccine can be given even if you have a fever. However, if you are very ill, your doctor may decide to delay the vaccine until you are feeling better.

22. Can I get the inactivated influenza vaccine if I am taking medications?

Yes, the inactivated influenza vaccine can be given to people who are taking medications. However, it is important to talk to your health care provider before receiving the vaccine to make sure it is safe for you.

23. Can I get the inactivated influenza vaccine if I am breastfeeding?

Yes, the inactivated influenza vaccine can be given to people who are breastfeeding. Breastfeeding mothers should get the inactivated influenza vaccine to help protect themselves and their infant from influenza.

24. Does the inactivated influenza vaccine work right away?

No, the inactivated influenza vaccine does not work right away. It typically takes about two weeks for the body to build immunity to the virus in the vaccine.

25. Does the inactivated influenza vaccine prevent all types of influenza?

No, the inactivated influenza vaccine does not prevent all types of influenza. It is typically effective against most strains of influenza A and influenza B that are circulating in the population. However, it may not be effective against new or rare strains of influenza viruses.

26. How long does it take for the inactivated influenza vaccine to start working?

It typically takes about two weeks for the body to build immunity to the virus in the vaccine. After that, the vaccine should provide protection from influenza infection for about one year.

27. Is the inactivated influenza vaccine appropriate for people with egg allergies?

Yes, the inactivated influenza vaccine can be given to people with an egg allergy. However, you should talk to your health care provider before receiving the vaccine.

28. Is the inactivated influenza vaccine safe for people who have a compromised immune system?

Yes, it is generally safe to get the inactivated influenza vaccine if you have a weakened immune system. However, it is important to talk to your health care provider before receiving the vaccine to make sure it is safe for you.

29. Is the inactivated influenza vaccine safe for people who take immunosuppressive drugs?

Yes, the inactivated influenza vaccine can be given to people who take immunosuppressive drugs. However, you should talk to your health care provider before receiving the vaccine.

30. If I’ve had the inactivated influenza vaccine in the past, do I need to get it again this year?

Yes, you should get the inactivated influenza vaccine each year. Immunity provided by the vaccine decreases over time, so it is important to get the vaccine each year to ensure ongoing protection.