FluLaval

FluLaval is an influenza vaccine used to protect against infection by influenza viruses. Manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), it is designed to target three or four strains of influenza virus, depending on the formulation. FluLaval is part of the broader public health strategy to mitigate the impacts of seasonal influenza outbreaks, pandemics, and the associated complications.

Composition

FluLaval is formulated annually to match the influenza virus strains predicted by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to be the most prevalent during the upcoming flu season. The vaccine contains inactivated (killed) flu virus and is available in trivalent (three-strain) and quadrivalent (four-strain) formulations. The quadrivalent version aims to offer broader protection by including an additional influenza B virus strain.

Indications

FluLaval is indicated for the prevention of influenza in individuals aged 6 months and older. Vaccination is particularly recommended for high-risk groups, including the elderly, healthcare workers, and those with chronic health conditions, to prevent severe flu-related complications.

Administration

The vaccine is administered as an intramuscular injection, typically into the upper arm for adults and into the thigh for young children. Annual vaccination is recommended, as the flu virus changes from year to year, and immunity from the vaccine declines over time.

Efficacy and Safety

The efficacy of FluLaval, like other flu vaccines, varies from season to season, depending on the match between the vaccine strains and the circulating viruses. Generally, flu vaccines are effective in reducing the risk of flu illness, hospitalizations, and complications. Common side effects of FluLaval include soreness at the injection site, headache, fever, and muscle aches. Severe allergic reactions are rare.

Regulatory Approval

FluLaval has been approved for use by regulatory agencies in multiple countries, including the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States. The approval process involves rigorous evaluation of the vaccine's safety, efficacy, and manufacturing quality.

Public Health Impact

Annual influenza vaccination, including the use of FluLaval, plays a critical role in reducing the impact of influenza epidemics. By lowering the number of influenza cases, vaccination helps decrease the burden on healthcare systems, reduces the risk of co-infection with other pathogens, and protects vulnerable populations from severe illness.

Resources

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Source: Data courtesy of the U.S. National Library of Medicine. Since the data might have changed, please query MeSH on FluLaval for any updates.

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