Influenza virus vaccine (Injection)
Influenza Virus Vaccine (Subvirion) (in-floo-EN-za VYE-rus VAX-een (sub-VEER-ee-on))
Helps prevent infection with influenza (flu) virus.
Afluria, Afluria 2013-2014 Formula, Fluarix 2013-2014 Formula, Fluarix Quadrivalent 2013-2014 Formula, Flucelvax, Flucelvax 2013-2014 Formula, Flulaval, Flulaval 2013-2014 Formula, Flulaval Quadrivalent 2013-2014 Season, Fluvirin, Fluvirin 2013-2014 Formulation, Fluzone, Fluzone 2013-2014 Formula, Fluzone High-Dose, Fluzone High-Dose 2013-2014 Formula
When This Medicine Should Not Be Used
How to Use This Medicine
- The vaccine is given as a shot into a muscle or into your skin, usually in the shoulder area. The shot could be given in the thigh for babies and young children.
- A nurse or other health provider will give you this medicine.
- A child who is younger than 9 years and who has not had a flu shot before may need 2 shots. The second shot should be given about 1 month after the first shot. It is usually best for the child to have received both shots before December.
- You need to get the flu vaccine every year to protect you from the flu.
- Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
If a dose is missed:
- Most people need only 1 dose of the vaccine.
- If your child needs a second dose of the vaccine, it is very important for him to receive the second dose on schedule. If you must cancel the appointment, make another appointment as soon as possible.
Drugs and Foods to Avoid
Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
- Make sure your doctor knows if you are using a medicine or treatment that weakens your immune system, such as a steroid, radiation, or cancer treatment. This vaccine may not work as well if you are also using these medicines. Your doctor may still want you to get the vaccine because it can give you some protection.
- Tell your doctor if you are also using a blood thinner (such as warfarin, Coumadin®, Jantoven®).
Warnings While Using This Medicine
- Make sure the person who gives the injection knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have bleeding problems (such as hemophilia), a latex allergy, HIV or AIDS, cancer, or any problems with your immune system.
- Make sure your doctor knows if you have had Guillain-Barré syndrome (a severe nerve and muscle problem) or have ever had an unusual reaction to a flu shot, such as severe muscle weakness.
- Children who have received the Afluria® brand of the influenza vaccine have developed a fever, and in some cases a fever with seizures. Talk with your doctor if you have concerns about this.
- Your protection from the flu takes up to 3 weeks to develop.
- Influenza virus vaccine may not protect everyone who receives the vaccine. Also, this vaccine will not treat flu symptoms if you already have the virus.
Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine
Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:
- Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
- Fever over 103 degrees F
- Severe muscle pain or weakness
If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:
- Diarrhea, vomiting, loss of appetite
- Irritability or crying (in a child)
- Mild fever, cough, runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, muscle or joint pain, sweating
- Redness, pain, swelling, soreness, or a small lump where the shot was given
- Unusual tiredness or weakness
If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088
- Last reviewed on 8/4/2014
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