What does live influenza vaccine mean?

Live means the vaccine contains a weakened virus rather than an inactivated virus component. Its purpose is to show the immune system what to recognise so it can respond more effectively later. The vaccine is not a treatment for influenza and does not protect against every cause of cough, fever or fatigue. Influenza may present with chills, headache, cough, tiredness and a general feeling of being unwell. Pneumonia is a separate lung infection and can be a serious complication of respiratory illness.

Ask the vaccination provider whether the live formulation is suitable if you are pregnant, immunocompromised, have a serious allergy, take immune-suppressing medicine or care for someone with a severely weakened immune system. Follow the product instructions for its route of administration. Nasal irritation, headache, tiredness or mild fever may occur. Rest and fluids are reasonable supportive measures; ask a pharmacist before taking additional medicines. Keep your health information and vaccination history ready for the appointment.

Call emergency services for facial or throat swelling, severe breathing difficulty, collapse, confusion, blue or grey lips or rapidly worsening symptoms. Seek prompt medical assessment for chest pain, breathlessness, a worsening cough, persistent fever or severe weakness. These findings may signal a serious reaction or pneumonia and should not be attributed to a routine vaccine response without advice. For less severe concerns, contact the provider who administered the vaccine.

Why is this formulation being offered to me? Do my medicines or medical conditions affect suitability? What should I do if I develop fever or cough afterwards? Which warning signs require emergency help?