- The vaccine must be given by a healthcare professional as an injection.
- The usual site for the shot is the upper arm muscle (deltoid).
- The skin should be clean before injection.
- After the injection, you should stay at the clinic for 15 minutes to watch for any immediate allergic reactions.
- You can continue your normal activities right after getting the vaccine.
If you miss the yearly vaccination, get it as soon as possible to stay protected.
The Fluad Quadrivalent vaccine works by teaching your immune system to recognize and fight the flu virus. It contains pieces of the flu virus that are not infectious, so they cannot cause the flu. When injected, your immune system sees these pieces and learns to recognize them as harmful.
- This helps your body produce antibodies.
- These antibodies protect you if you come into contact with the real flu virus.
- The vaccine covers four strains of flu virus: two influenza A strains and two influenza B strains.
- The adjuvant in the vaccine boosts the immune response, making the vaccine more effective, especially in older people.
After vaccination, it usually takes about two weeks for your body to build full protection.
Like all vaccines, Fluad Quadrivalent can cause side effects. Most are mild and go away on their own in a few days.
Common side effects include:
- Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site
- Muscle aches
- Mild fever
- Headache
- Fatigue or tiredness
- Nausea
Rare side effects can be serious, such as allergic reactions. Signs of a serious allergic reaction include:
- Difficulty breathing
- Swelling of the face or throat
- Rash or hives all over the body
- Fast heartbeat or dizziness
If you experience these symptoms, seek emergency medical help immediately.
- Allergies: Do not take this vaccine if you have had a severe allergic reaction to a previous flu vaccine or any ingredients in Fluad Quadrivalent.
- Egg allergy: People with a severe egg allergy should discuss vaccination with their doctor.
- Illness: If you have a moderate or severe illness, wait until recovery before getting the vaccine.
- Bleeding disorders: If you have bleeding problems or take blood thinners, inform the healthcare provider to prevent bleeding at the injection site.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Consult your doctor before vaccination if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Weakened immune system: The vaccine might be less effective in people with weak immune systems.
Children: Fluad Quadrivalent is generally not recommended for children under 65 unless advised by a doctor.
Fluad Quadrivalent may interact with other medicines or vaccines. Here are some important points:
- Other vaccines: It can be given at the same time as other vaccines, but in a different injection site.
- Blood thinners: If you take blood-thinning medicines (like warfarin), tell your doctor because you may bleed more after the injection.
- Immune system medicines: If you are taking medicines that affect your immune system (like steroids or chemotherapy), the vaccine might be less effective.
- Allergies: Inform your doctor if you have any allergy to vaccine ingredients, eggs, or previous flu vaccines.
- Other infections: If you are sick with a fever or infection, wait until you feel better before getting the vaccine.
Always tell your doctor about all the medicines and supplements you are taking before vaccination.
- The recommended dose is one 0.5 ml injection per flu season.
- Should be administered annually before the flu season starts, ideally by the end of October.
- No booster doses are usually required within the same flu season.
- People aged 65 and older are the main group who should receive this vaccine.
In case of any missed vaccination, get vaccinated as soon as possible during the flu season.
. What is Fluad Quadrivalent PF 2022–2023 used for? It is used to prevent influenza in adults aged 65 years and older.
2. What does “Quadrivalent” mean in Fluad? It protects against four influenza virus strains: two A and two B types.
3. What is the active ingredient in Fluad Quadrivalent? Inactivated influenza virus antigens with MF59 adjuvant.
4. What drug class does Fluad belong to? Viral vaccines.
5. Is Fluad a controlled substance? No, it is not classified as a controlled substance.
6. Is Fluad available in generic form? No, there is no generic equivalent.
7. How is Fluad administered? As an intramuscular injection.
8. What age group is Fluad approved for? Adults 65 years and older.
9. How often is Fluad given? Once annually before flu season.
10. What are common side effects? Injection site pain, fatigue, headache, and muscle aches.
11. Can Fluad cause serious reactions? Rarely, it may cause allergic reactions or Guillain-Barré syndrome.
12. What is the MF59 adjuvant? An oil-in-water emulsion that boosts immune response.
13. Is Fluad safe during pregnancy? It is not indicated for pregnant individuals.
14. How should Fluad be stored? Refrigerated at 2°C to 8°C; do not freeze.
15. Is a prescription required for Fluad? Yes, it is administered by healthcare professionals.
16. Can Fluad be used with other vaccines? Yes, but consult a healthcare provider for scheduling.
17. Is Fluad available in Pakistan? Availability may vary; check with local immunization centers.
18. Is Fluad part of routine immunization schedules? Yes, it is recommended for seniors in many national programs.
19. How effective is Fluad compared to standard flu vaccines? It provides enhanced protection in older adults.
20. Who should not receive Fluad? Those with severe allergic reactions to any component of the vaccine.