Influenza vaccines

Influenza Vaccines

The Influenza Vaccines are vaccines that protect against influenza. Influenza is a highly contagious viral infection that can cause severe illness and life-threatening complications, including pneumonia. The influenza vaccine is the primary method for preventing influenza and its potentially severe complications.

Types of Influenza Vaccines

There are several types of influenza vaccines available, including:

• Inactivated Influenza Vaccines (IIV): These vaccines contain inactivated, or killed, viruses. They are typically administered via injection.

• Live Attenuated Influenza Vaccines (LAIV): These vaccines contain live viruses that have been weakened so they cannot cause influenza. They are typically administered via nasal spray.

• Recombinant Influenza Vaccines (RIV): These vaccines are produced using recombinant DNA technology. They do not contain any live influenza viruses.

Effectiveness of Influenza Vaccines

The effectiveness of influenza vaccines can vary from year to year and among different age and risk groups. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) conducts studies each year to determine how well the influenza vaccines work.

Side Effects of Influenza Vaccines

While influenza vaccines are generally safe, they can cause side effects. Common side effects include soreness, redness, and/or swelling from the shot, headache, fever, nausea, and muscle aches.

Recommendations for Influenza Vaccination

The CDC recommends annual influenza vaccination for everyone 6 months and older with any licensed, age-appropriate influenza vaccine.

See Also

• Vaccination
• Influenza
• Pneumonia
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention