Afluria PF Quadrivalent 2021–2022 is primarily indicated for the prevention of seasonal influenza infections caused by influenza virus subtypes A and types B contained in the vaccine. It helps reduce the risk of contracting influenza during flu season.
This vaccine provides protection against multiple strains of influenza viruses, including those that are expected to circulate during the upcoming flu season. By targeting four different influenza virus strains (two influenza A strains and two influenza B strains), Afluria PF Quadrivalent 2021–2022 offers broader protection compared to trivalent vaccines.
By stimulating the immune system to produce antibodies against influenza viruses, Afluria PF Quadrivalent 2021–2022 helps reduce the risk of influenza-related complications, such as pneumonia, bronchitis, sinus infections, and exacerbation of underlying medical conditions.
Afluria PF Quadrivalent 2021–2022 contributes to community immunity, also known as herd immunity, by reducing the spread of influenza viruses within the population. When a significant portion of the population is vaccinated, it helps protect individuals who may be more vulnerable to influenza and reduces the overall burden of influenza-related illness and hospitalizations.
How it Works
Afluria PF Quadrivalent 2021–2022 works by utilizing inactivated influenza viruses to stimulate the body’s immune response. When administered through intramuscular injection, the vaccine introduces specific components of the influenza virus to the immune system without causing illness.
Upon vaccination, the immune system recognizes these components as foreign invaders and produces antibodies to neutralize them. These antibodies remain in the body and provide immunity against future exposure to influenza viruses.
By priming the immune system to recognize and respond to influenza viruses, Afluria PF Quadrivalent 2021–2022 helps prevent infection or reduces its severity if exposure occurs during the flu season.
Vaccination is particularly important for individuals at higher risk of severe influenza complications, including pregnant women, young children, older adults, and individuals with certain medical conditions.
This mechanism of action is crucial in protecting individuals from contracting influenza and in reducing the spread of the virus within the community.
Common side effects
- Fever: Mild fever or elevated body temperature may occur as the body mounts an immune response to the vaccine.
- Fatigue: Some individuals may feel tired or lethargic after vaccination.
- Headache: Headaches are a common side effect and may occur shortly after receiving the vaccine.
- Muscle aches: Soreness or discomfort in the muscles, often referred to as myalgia, may occur following vaccination.
Serious side effects
- Allergic reactions: Severe allergic reactions to components of the vaccine, such as gelatin or egg proteins, are rare but possible.
- Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS): While extremely rare, Guillain-Barré Syndrome, a neurological disorder characterized by muscle weakness and paralysis, has been reported following influenza vaccination.
Note: It’s important for individuals to discuss any concerns or adverse reactions with their healthcare provider. They can provide guidance and recommendations based on individual health history and risk factors.
Individuals with a known history of severe allergic reactions to any component of the vaccine, such as gelatin or egg proteins, should not receive Afluria PF Quadrivalent 2021–2022.
Vaccination with Afluria PF Quadrivalent 2021–2022 should be postponed in individuals with moderate to severe acute illnesses, such as fever. This precaution helps ensure the vaccine’s efficacy and reduces the risk of exacerbating existing symptoms.
While the risk is rare, Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), a neurological disorder characterized by muscle weakness and paralysis, has been reported following influenza vaccination.
Afluria PF Quadrivalent 2021–2022 may have reduced effectiveness in individuals receiving immunosuppressive therapies, such as corticosteroids or chemotherapy. Healthcare providers should assess the individual’s immune status and consider the timing of vaccination relative to immunosuppressive treatment.
Afluria PF Quadrivalent 2021–2022 may have reduced effectiveness in individuals receiving immunosuppressive therapies, such as corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone) or chemotherapy.
Certain antiviral medications used to treat influenza, such as oseltamivir (Tamiflu) or zanamivir (Relenza), may interact with Afluria PF Quadrivalent 2021–2022. These medications may affect the body’s immune response to the vaccine or alter the vaccine’s effectiveness.
Concurrent administration of Afluria PF Quadrivalent 2021–2022 with other vaccines may affect the immune response to either vaccine or increase the risk of adverse reactions. Afluria PF Quadrivalent 2021–2022 should not be administered concurrently with live attenuated vaccines, as this may interfere with the immune response to either vaccine.
Individuals should consult their healthcare provider for personalized recommendations regarding vaccination and potential drug interactions. Healthcare providers can assess the individual’s medical history and medication regimen to determine the appropriate timing and administration of Afluria PF Quadrivalent 2021–2022.
Infants aged 6 through 35 months: Administer 0.25 mL per dose of Afluria PF Quadrivalent 2021–2022. The vaccine is typically administered as a single injection into the muscle of the thigh.
Children aged 3 years and older and adults: Administer 0.5 mL per dose of Afluria PF Quadrivalent 2021–2022. The vaccine is typically administered as a single injection into the muscle of the upper arm.
It is important to follow the recommended dosage and administration instructions provided by healthcare providers or as outlined in the prescribing information for Afluria PF Quadrivalent 2021–2022.
Individuals with certain medical conditions, such as immunocompromised individuals or those with chronic medical conditions, may have specific dosage requirements or considerations.
Healthcare providers should assess the individual’s medical history and consult the prescribing information for Afluria PF Quadrivalent 2021–2022 to determine the appropriate dosage and administration regimen for these populations.