Flu Vaccine Information

The Australian Influenza Vaccine Committee (AIVC) have endorsed the WHO recommendations and approved the strains for season 2008. In accordance with the AIVC recommendations, CSL has chosen to use the following virus strains for season 2008 production:

• A A/Solomon Islands/3/2006 (H1N1) (IVR-145);
• A/Brisbane/10/2007 (H3N2) (IVR-147);
• B/Florida /4/2006 or B/Brisbane/3/2007;

You SHOULD NOT have the Flu Vaccine today if:

• You are allergic to eggs, chicken feathers, Neomycin, Polymixin, Gentamicin, Thimerosal or Latex
• If you have a severe infection with a high fever
• If you have ever had Guillain Barre Syndrome
• If you are currently taking the following medication: Warfarin (Coumardin, Marevan), Theophylline Austin (Nuelin, Theo-due), Phenytoin (Dilantin)

Although no harm is done with having the vaccine with these medications, the flu vaccine can sometimes increase the toxicity of them and therefore the flu vaccine should be administered under the supervision of your own Family Doctor. Whilst pregnancy and breastfeeding is not a contraindication to receiving Fluvax, you may wish to discuss this with your own GP.

Mild transient side effects may include:

• Redness, swelling, rash and tenderness at the site of injection
• Mild fever, general feeling of unwell, muscle and joint pain

These side effects are mild and generally disappear within about 48 hours after vaccination. Any side effects more severe than those mentioned should be reported to your Family Doctor.

Taking Panadol, antihistamine tablets and applying ice to the site of injection can ease any pain or swelling or fever associated with vaccination.

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