Please read the following information regarding influenza immunization.

Who should get the influenza vaccine?

You should get the vaccine if you are age 6 months and older. Children over 9 years and adults receive 1 dose. Children 6 months to 9 years who are getting the influenza vaccine for the first time should have 2 doses, given 1 month apart. After the first year, all children need just 1 dose.

How does this vaccine work?

The influenza vaccine contains multiple strains, providing protection against the most severe types of influenza expected for the current year. It is an “inactivated” vaccine, containing components from killed viruses that cannot cause disease which prompts your immune system to produce protective antibodies. Inactivated vaccines are safe and effective and can be given on the same day as other vaccines. Developing full protection takes about 2 weeks after the immunization. Influenza vaccine will lower your risk of getting the disease and reduce the chance of spreading influenza to others.

Side Effects:

Side effects to this vaccine are usually mild and go away in a few days. Side effects may include:

Redness, swelling and discomfort where the needle was given
Headache or body aches
Low fever or chills
Feeling tired or irritable
Poor appetite, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain or diarrhea

Treat swelling and discomfort at the injection site by putting a cool, wet cloth over the area. There is medicine to help with fever or pain. Check with your health care practitioner if you are not sure what medication or dosage to take. Do not give aspirin products to anyone younger than 19 years of age.

Unusual or more severe reactions may occur, including a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis), so it is important to stay at the clinic for 15 minutes after the immunization. If anaphylaxis happens, you will get medicine to treat the symptoms. Any unusual or serious reactions beyond what is listed above should be reported to your health care practitioner.

If you have questions, please ask your health care practitioner.

Immunization Questionnaire