- Fluarix PF Quadrivalent is given by a healthcare professional as an injection.
- The usual injection site is the upper arm muscle for adults and older children, or the thigh muscle for young children.
- The injection site should be cleaned with an antiseptic before the shot.
- After vaccination, it is recommended to wait 15 minutes to watch for any allergic reactions.
- You can return to your normal activities right after vaccination.
Try to get vaccinated before the flu season begins to get the best protection.
Fluarix PF Quadrivalent helps your immune system recognize and fight the flu virus:
- It contains small, inactive parts of four flu viruses (two A strains and two B strains).
- These pieces cannot cause flu but teach your immune system to recognize and attack the real virus.
- After vaccination, your body makes antibodies that protect you if you meet the actual flu viruses.
It usually takes about two weeks for your body to build full protection.
Most side effects are mild and temporary, including:
- Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site
- Muscle aches
- Headache
- Mild fever
- Fatigue
- Nausea
Rare but serious side effects can occur, such as:
- Allergic reactions like rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing
- High fever
- Severe muscle pain or weakness
If you notice any serious symptoms, seek medical help immediately.
- Do not get this vaccine if you have had a serious allergic reaction to a previous flu vaccine or any ingredients in Fluarix PF Quadrivalent.
- People with severe egg allergies should talk to their doctor before vaccination.
- If you are moderately or severely ill, wait until you recover before getting vaccinated.
- Inform your healthcare provider if you have bleeding disorders or take blood thinners.
- Discuss with your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a weakened immune system.
This vaccine is safe for children aged 6 months and older.
Fluarix PF Quadrivalent can interact with other medicines or vaccines. Important points include:
- Other vaccines: It can be given at the same time as other vaccines, but injections should be given at different body sites.
- Blood thinners: If you take blood-thinning medicines (like warfarin), tell your doctor to avoid excessive bleeding or bruising.
- Immunosuppressive drugs: Medicines that weaken your immune system (like steroids or chemotherapy drugs) might reduce how well the vaccine works.
- Allergy concerns: Inform your doctor if you have allergies to eggs, previous flu vaccines, or any vaccine ingredients.
- Current illness: If you have a fever or infection, wait until you recover before getting vaccinated.
Always tell your healthcare provider about all medicines and supplements you are taking.
- Children 6 months to 35 months: 0.25 ml per dose, two doses at least 4 weeks apart if it is their first flu vaccination.
- Children 3 years and older and adults: 0.5 ml once per flu season.
- Vaccinate ideally before flu season starts (usually by October).
- Booster doses are generally not needed in the same flu season.
Follow your doctor’s advice on vaccination timing and dosage.
1. What is Fluarix PF Quadrivalent 2023–2024 used for? It is used to prevent influenza caused by virus strains included in the 2023–2024 flu season.
2. What does “Quadrivalent” mean in Fluarix? It protects against four influenza virus strains: two A strains and two B strains.
3. What is the active ingredient in Fluarix? Inactivated influenza virus antigens.
4. What drug class does Fluarix belong to? Viral vaccines.
5. Is Fluarix a controlled substance? No, it is not classified as a controlled substance.
6. Is Fluarix available in generic form? No, there is no generic equivalent.
7. How is Fluarix administered? As an intramuscular injection.
8. What age group is Fluarix approved for? Approved for individuals aged 6 months and older.
9. How often is Fluarix given? Once annually, before the start of flu season.
10. What are common side effects? Injection site pain, fatigue, headache, muscle aches, and fever.
11. Can Fluarix cause serious reactions? Rarely, it may cause allergic reactions or Guillain-Barré syndrome.
12. Is Fluarix safe during pregnancy? Yes, inactivated flu vaccines are generally considered safe during pregnancy.
13. How should Fluarix be stored? Refrigerate at 2°C to 8°C; do not freeze.
14. Is a prescription required for Fluarix? Yes, it is administered by healthcare professionals.
15. Can Fluarix be used with other vaccines? Yes, but consult a healthcare provider for scheduling.
16. Is Fluarix available in Pakistan? Availability may vary; check with local immunization centers or pharmacies.
17. Is Fluarix part of routine immunization schedules? Yes, it is included in seasonal flu vaccination programs.
18. How effective is Fluarix? Effectiveness varies by season but generally reduces flu-related illness and complications.
19. Who should not receive Fluarix? Those with severe allergic reactions to any component of the vaccine.
20. What does “PF” mean in Fluarix PF? “Preservative-Free,” indicating it does not contain thimerosal.