Name of the Procedure:

Influenza Virus Vaccine, Trivalent (IIV3), Split Virus, 0.25 mL Dosage, Intramuscular

Summary

The influenza virus vaccine, trivalent (IIV3), is an immunization given via an intramuscular injection. It contains inactivated strains of three different influenza viruses. The dosage for this specific procedure is 0.25 mL, which is administered to help protect against the flu.

Purpose

The IIV3 vaccine is designed to protect individuals against three common strains of the influenza virus. By generating an immune response, it helps reduce the risk of contracting the flu, minimizes the severity of symptoms if infection occurs, and contributes to public health efforts by reducing the spread of the virus.

Indications

• Individuals aged 6 months and older, depending on health guidelines.
• People with underlying health conditions like asthma, diabetes, or heart disease.
• Elderly individuals and young children.
• Healthcare workers or people in close contact with high-risk groups.

Preparation

• Patients should inform their healthcare provider of any allergies, especially to eggs or vaccine components.
• No specific fasting or preparation is typically required.
• Review any current medications with the healthcare provider.

Procedure Description

1. The patient sits or lies down comfortably.
2. The injection site (usually the upper arm deltoid muscle for adults and older children, or anterolateral thigh muscle for younger children) is cleaned with an antiseptic.
3. A single-use sterile needle and syringe are used to draw 0.25 mL of the vaccine.
4. The vaccine is injected intramuscularly into the established site.
5. The injection site is then covered with a small adhesive bandage if needed.

Duration

The administration of the vaccine typically takes about 5 minutes.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in an outpatient clinic, pharmacy, hospital, or pediatrician's office.

Personnel

• Nurses or trained healthcare providers administer the vaccine.
• A physician or doctor may be present, especially in settings where immediate medical oversight is needed.

Risks and Complications

• Common: Pain at injection site, mild fever, muscle aches, fatigue.
• Rare: Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis), Guillain-Barré syndrome, high fever.

Benefits

• Reduction in the likelihood of contracting influenza.
• Decreased severity of symptoms if the flu is contracted.
• Lower risk of flu-related complications like pneumonia, hospitalization, or death.

Recovery

• Mild soreness or redness at the injection site may occur and typically resolves within a few days.
• Over-the-counter pain relievers can be used if needed.
• Patients can resume normal activities immediately after the vaccination.

Alternatives

• Quadrivalent Influenza Vaccine (IIV4) which includes protection against an additional influenza B strain.
• Live Attenuated Influenza Vaccine (LAIV) administered as a nasal spray, recommended for certain age groups and conditions.
• Antiviral medications used for treating active influenza infections, not preventive.

Patient Experience

• Patients may feel a brief pinch or discomfort during the injection.
• Mild soreness or redness at the injection site is common.
• Most patients experience minimal disruption to their daily routine and are advised to engage in normal activities post-vaccination. Pain and discomfort can be managed with over-the-counter medications if needed.