Generic name:
Influenza virus vaccine preservative free - intramuscular
Pronunciation
(IN-floo-EN-za)
Brand name(s)
Afluria , Fluarix , Flublok , Flucelvax , Flulaval , Fluvirin , Fluzone
Generic name:
Influenza virus vaccine preservative free - intramuscular
Pronunciation
(IN-floo-EN-za)
Brand name(s)
Afluria , Fluarix , Flublok , Flucelvax , Flulaval , Fluvirin , Fluzone
This vaccine is used to help prevent influenza ("flu") in people 6 months and older. Influenza can cause serious (rarely fatal) illness, especially in people at high risk from the infection (such as young children, older adults, people with chronic health problems). This vaccine is also called the seasonal flu shot. It works by increasing the body's natural defense (immunity) against the virus.
Vaccination is the best way to protect against this infection. It can help prevent the infection or decrease the seriousness of the illness if you become infected. Since different types of flu viruses cause infection every flu season, a new vaccine is made and given every year.
Vaccines may not fully protect everyone who receives them.
The flu vaccine does not cause the flu.
Read all vaccine information available from your health care professional before receiving the vaccine. If you have any questions, ask your health care professional.
This vaccine is given by injection into a muscle by a health care professional. Some brands may also be given by deep injection under the skin. This vaccine is given in the upper arm for children and adults and in the thigh for infants.
The vaccination is usually given once a year during September to November, the time when the number of flu cases begin to increase (the start of "flu season"). Children younger than 9 years may receive a second dose depending on when the first dose was given. Discuss the dose schedule with your health care professional.
Soreness/redness/swelling/bruising at the injection site, fever, muscle aches, headache, or weakness may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your health care professional promptly.
Rarely, some people have symptoms such as fainting, dizziness, vision changes, or ringing in the ears just after getting a vaccine injection. Tell your health care professional right away if you have any of these symptoms. Sitting or lying down may help, since these symptoms usually don't last long.
Remember that this vaccine has been prescribed because your health care professional has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this vaccine do not have serious side effects.
Tell your health care professional right away if you have any serious side effects, including:
A very serious allergic reaction to this vaccine is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including:
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your health care professional.
Contact the health care professional 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 call the Vaccine Safety Section at Public Health Agency of Canada at 1-866-844-0018.
Before you receive this vaccine, tell the health care professional if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients (such as latex found in some brands), which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your health care professional for more details.
Before receiving this vaccine, tell your health care professional your medical history, especially of:
During pregnancy, flu vaccination is usually recommended. Discuss the risks and benefits with your health care professional.
It is unknown if this vaccine passes into breast milk. Consult your health care professional before breastfeeding.
Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your health care professional. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
Not applicable.
Keep all medical and lab appointments.
Keep vaccine records for yourself and your children and provide them to the health care professionals to prevent unnecessary re-vaccinations.
This vaccine is usually given once every flu season. If your child is prescribed a second dose, mark your calendar with a reminder. If your child misses the dose, call the health care professional to reschedule.
Store in the refrigerator. Do not freeze. Protect from light. Keep all medications away from children and pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.
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.
Information last revised February 2025.
Copyright(c) 2025 First Databank, Inc.
Selected from NATIONAL DRUG DATA FILE (NDDF) data included with permission and copyrighted by First Databank, Inc., 2019. This copyrighted material has been downloaded from a licensed data provider.
The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your health care professional. You should consult your health care professional before taking any drug, changing your diet, or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.