Influenza

Close-up of vaccine vials with silver caps on a production line, shown in navy blue tones.
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  • WHAT IT PROTECTS AGAINST

    Influenza (respiratory infection)

  • WHO IT’S FOR

    Infants, children, adolescents, and adults

  • WHEN IT’S ROUTINELY GIVEN

    One dose every year for everyone 6 months and older

  • BENEFITS

    • Protects against serious illness and complications from influenza:
      • Pneumonia
      • Worsening of pulmonary and cardiac disease
      • Ear infections
      • Sinus infections
      • Dehydration
      • Fever
    • Helps stop the virus from spreading to others

  • POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS

    • Soreness around injection site
    • Mild fever
    • Muscle aches
    • Tiredness

    Side effects from vaccines are usually mild and temporary. It’s always good to keep in mind that vaccine side effects are minor compared to the more severe health issues that can be caused if you get sick with the disease.

  • VACCINE PRODUCTS (available in the United States)

    • Fluzone (high-dose IIV)
    • Flublok (RIV)
    • Flucelvax
    • FluMist
    • Afluria
    • Fluad
    • Fluarix
    • FluLaval
    • Fluzone
    • FluMist

  • COMMON QUESTIONS

    Why do I need to get an annual flu shot?

    Influenza viruses change. Each year, the influenza vaccine is developed to protect against the strains of virus that are circulating.