Influenza Vaccination

Influenza Vaccine Information

The influenza vaccine is an injectable vaccine made from inactivated viruses through a safe and highly effective production process. The influenza vaccine does not protect against the common cold caused by other viruses.

Influenza Overview

Influenza is caused by a virus that spreads from person to person through breathing, coughing, and sneezing. It tends to be prevalent every winter from October to May. Symptoms vary with age but may include fever, chills, sore throat, muscle pain, fatigue, cough, headache, runny or stuffy nose. Influenza can lead to pneumonia and bloodstream infections, and it can cause diarrhea and seizures in children. Symptoms may worsen if there are underlying health conditions.

Who Should Receive the Influenza Vaccine

• Healthcare personnel and staff who work with patients
• Individuals with chronic diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, cancer undergoing chemotherapy, diabetes, thalassemia, immunodeficiency (including symptomatic HIV infection)
• People aged 65 years and older
• Pregnant women at least 4 months into their pregnancy
• Individuals weighing over 100 kilograms
• People with disabilities affecting brain function who are unable to care for themselves
• Children aged 6 months to 2 years and healthy adults can also receive the influenza vaccine

Who Should Not Receive or Postpone the Influenza Vaccine

• Children under 6 months old
• Individuals with a severe allergy to chicken or chicken eggs
• People who have had a severe allergic reaction to a previous influenza vaccine
• If you have a fever, acute illness, or an uncontrolled chronic condition, you should postpone the vaccination. However, if you have a mild cold without a fever, you can still receive the vaccine.

Influenza Vaccine Schedule

The influenza vaccine needs to be administered annually for continuous protection. For children under 9 years old receiving the vaccine for the first time, two doses are recommended, with the second dose administered one month after the first.

Observing Side Effects

The influenza vaccine can cause side effects, such as redness and swelling at the injection site, fever, and muscle aches shortly after the injection. These symptoms should subside within 1-2 days. Severe allergic reactions are very rare, but if they occur, they typically appear within 2-3 minutes to 2-3 hours after vaccination. Symptoms may include difficulty breathing, wheezing, hives, paleness, weakness, hoarseness, rapid heartbeat, or dizziness.

Managing Side Effects

• If there is pain or swelling at the injection site, apply a cold compress.
• If you have a fever, take an appropriate dose of antipyretic medication.
• If severe symptoms occur, consult a doctor immediately and provide detailed information about the symptoms.