Flulaval (Flulaval) Drug Overview and Uses for Patients and Caregivers at RxList

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May 27, 2012

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Flu (Influenza) »

Flu (influenza, conventional, and H1N1) facts

Influenza, commonly called "the flu," is caused by viruses that infect the respiratory tract.
Influenza viruses are divided into three types, designated A, B, and C, with A types usually causing the most problems in humans.
Most people who get the conventional or seasonal flu recover completely in one to two weeks, but some people develop serious and potentially life-threatening medical complications, such as pneumonia.
Much of the illness and death caused by conventional or seasonal influenza can be prevented by annual influenza vaccination.
Influenza A undergoes frequent antigenic changes that require new vaccines to be developed and people to obtain a new vaccination every year. New vaccine technology is being developed.
In April 2009, a new flu virus termed novel H1N1 swine flu developed in Mexico, rapidly spread worldwide, and caused the WHO to de...

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IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

INFLUENZA VIRUS VACCINE - VIAL INTRAMUSCULAR

(IN-floo-EN-za)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Flushield, Fluvirin, Fluzone

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.