The influenza virus in humans is subjected to inner structural changes thus changing their strains from time to time. This explains the need to be vaccinated on a yearly basis. This process is being regulated by the WHO.

2. How effective is the vaccine?

Influenza vaccination is 70-90 % effective in preventing the complications brought about by Influenza or the “flu” such as pneumonia.

3. How long after vaccination does it take for the antibodies against the “flu” is to be produced?

It takes up to two (2) weeks for the vaccine to give full protection.

4. How long does the vaccination last?

The protection lasts for one year. Re-immunization should be done annually.

5. Who should NOT receive the vaccine?

Patients with known allergy to egg are not advised to get the vaccine since the vaccine, although purified or sterilized, is produced in hens’ eggs and may contain residues of egg protein. Patients with known allergy to an antibiotic known as Neomycin (not Penicillin) are not encouraged to receive the vaccine since neomycin is contained in the vaccine. Patients with fever should not receive the vaccine until after the fever has subsided.

6. What are the possible side effects of the vaccine?

Influenza vaccine is well tolerated but in rare circumstances (less than 1%) may cause side effects which may include low-grade fever which does not exceed 38.5, generalized body pain and weakness. These side effects may also occur in children who have not previously been exposed to the vaccine or virus.

After receiving the vaccine one may also notice localized side effects such as redness around the vaccination site which may persist for one to two days.

One must note that the side effects mentioned are minor and incomparable to the complications that may arise if one does not receive the vaccine.

7. Can you get influenza from the vaccine?

NO. The vaccine has been made from the virus that has been inactivated of its properties to cause infection; it has been concentrated and broken apart as well. It CANNOT cause influenza as the vaccine does not contain any live viruses. Once you receive the vaccine, your body will respond to it by producing an immune response which is may be manifested by symptoms such as fever and generalized body weakness and will last for one to two days.

8. What is the recommendation for children?

The recommended influenza vaccine dose for children is as follows:

·         Two doses separated by at least one month if the vaccine is administered for the first time.

·         Corporate-sponsored vaccination is suggested to be limited to those who are at least 3 years old.

9. Can the vaccine be administered during pregnancy?

The flu vaccine can be administered in pregnant women that are on their second trimester and above of their pregnancy or five months above. It CANNOT be administered during the first trimester or from one month to 4 months and to those women who are suspecting possible pregnancy.