Adjuvanted inactivated influenza vaccine

It is given to reduce the chance of becoming seriously unwell from the influenza strains covered by that season's vaccine. The formulation is intended for specific eligible groups, so a clinician or vaccination service should confirm that it matches your age, health history and current recommendations.

Inactivated means the injection does not contain live influenza virus capable of multiplying and causing flu. It presents selected viral material to the immune system so the body can prepare a response before later exposure.

The adjuvant is an added component that helps draw the immune system's attention to the vaccine material. This can also contribute to short-lived reactions such as soreness, tiredness, headache or aching. Influenza vaccines are updated by season, and protection is not immediate or complete.

Tell the vaccinator about previous severe vaccine reactions, known allergies, current illness, pregnancy, medicines that affect immunity, bleeding problems and any recent vaccination. Bring your vaccination record if available so the service can check what you have already received.

After the injection, follow the observation instructions at the clinic. Move the arm gently, drink normally and rest if you feel tired. A cool compress can ease soreness. Ask a pharmacist or clinician which pain medicine is suitable for you rather than taking an unfamiliar product. Mild local or general symptoms commonly settle over the next few days.

Call emergency services for trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, widespread hives, severe dizziness, collapse or rapidly worsening symptoms after vaccination. These may indicate a serious allergic reaction and should not be watched at home.

Contact a clinician if fever or pain is severe, symptoms are getting worse rather than easing, the injection area becomes increasingly red or swollen, or you develop weakness, altered sensation or another symptom that concerns you. New cough, sore throat or congestion may reflect an unrelated respiratory infection and can still merit assessment based on severity.

Ask whether this particular formulation is recommended for you, whether illness or another recent vaccine changes the timing, and which reactions are expected with the product being offered. If you previously reacted to an influenza vaccine or one of its ingredients, describe exactly what happened and how soon it began.