Influvac (Influenza Vaccine)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Influvac Used For?
Influvac is a trivalent influenza vaccine designed to protect against certain types of influenza, commonly known as the flu.
Primary Uses
It is used to prevent influenza in adults and children aged 6 months and older.
How It Works
The vaccine stimulates the body to produce antibodies against three different strains of the influenza virus.
Good to know: Influvac is not addictive.
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How to Take Influvac
Influvac is given as an injection by a healthcare professional.
Dosage Instructions
Adults and children over 36 months receive a 0.5 mL dose. Children aged 6 to 35 months receive a 0.25 mL dose. For children under 9 years who are receiving the vaccine for the first time, a second dose is recommended after at least 4 weeks.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose, contact your healthcare provider to arrange for a new appointment as soon as possible.
Important: Never double the dose if a dose is missed.
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- Pain and discomfort at the injection site
- Headache
- Tiredness
- Muscle and joint aches
- Feeling unwell
- Shivering
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Severe allergic reactions including swelling of the face or limbs, difficulty breathing, hives, or severe skin reactions
Important Warnings
There are specific conditions and allergies that may prevent you from receiving Influvac.
Who Should Not Take Influvac
Do not receive Influvac if you have had an allergic reaction to it, any other influenza vaccine, or any of its ingredients.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Discuss with your healthcare provider if you have a history of Guillain-Barre Syndrome, immune deficiencies, bleeding disorders, or if you have fainted during injections.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Consult your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or breastfeeding to discuss the benefits and risks of vaccination.
Drug Interactions
Some medications may affect how Influvac works.
- Other vaccines received within the same year
- Over-the-counter medications
Alcohol & Driving
Influvac typically does not impair your ability to drive or operate machinery, but some individuals may experience dizziness or light-headedness.
Alcohol
No specific warnings about alcohol consumption while taking Influvac.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Be cautious when driving or using machinery until you know how Influvac affects you.
Storage
Store Influvac in the refrigerator between 2°C to 8°C. Do not freeze. Keep it out of reach of children and in its original packaging until use.
Overdose Information
In case of an overdose, contact your healthcare provider or local emergency services for guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Influvac typically takes a few weeks to build up immunity after vaccination.
There are no specific dietary restrictions when receiving Influvac.
No, Influvac is not addictive.
Influvac is a vaccine, so it is not something you take continuously. Missing a dose may reduce your immunity to influenza.
There are no specific warnings about alcohol consumption while receiving Influvac.
Weight gain is not a known side effect of Influvac.
Elderly patients should consult their healthcare provider to ensure it is safe for them to receive Influvac.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.