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, tell 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 right away if any of these rare but very serious side effects occur: mental/mood changes, seizures.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: 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.

Read the Afluria (influenza virus vaccine) Side Effects Center for a complete guide to possible side effects »

PRECAUTIONS: Before receiving this vaccination, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to eggs or chicken products; or to any other vaccines; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients (such as latex, preservatives like thimerosal found in some brands), which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: any fever, uncontrolled seizures or other nervous system disorder (such as encephalopathy), bleeding disorders (such as hemophilia, thrombocytopenia), history of Guillain-Barre syndrome, immune system disorders (such as autoimmune disorders, radiation treatment), seizures (such as epilepsy controlled by medication, febrile seizures) or history of other nervous system disorders, vaccination history including previous reactions to any vaccines.

This vaccine is recommended during pregnancy. Ask your doctor about the benefits and risks.

It is unknown if this vaccine passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.