Name of the Procedure:

Influenza Virus Vaccine, Trivalent (ccIIV3) Common names: Flu shot, Trivalent Influenza Vaccine, Cell Culture-Derived Flu Vaccine

Summary

The Influenza Virus Vaccine, Trivalent (ccIIV3), is an annual flu vaccine designed to protect against three different flu viruses. It is derived from cell cultures, free of preservatives and antibiotics, and administered via a 0.5 mL intramuscular injection.

Purpose

The vaccine is used to prevent influenza, commonly known as the flu, by stimulating the body's immune system to recognize and fight the flu virus. The goal is to reduce the incidence of flu-related illness and its complications.

Indications

• Individuals aged 18 years and older
• Those at high risk for flu complications, such as pregnant women, elderly individuals, and people with chronic health conditions like asthma, diabetes, or heart disease
• Healthcare workers and others in frequent contact with vulnerable populations

Preparation

• No specific preparation is typically required
• Inform the healthcare provider of any allergies or past adverse reactions to flu vaccines
• Discuss any current illnesses, as moderate or severe illness might delay vaccination

Procedure Description

1. The patient is seated, and the injection site (typically the upper arm) is cleaned with an alcohol swab.
2. Using a sterile, single-use needle, the healthcare provider injects 0.5 mL of the vaccine intramuscularly.
3. The needle is disposed of in a sharps container, and a bandage is applied to the injection site.
4. The patient is observed for a short period for any immediate adverse reactions.

Duration

The injection itself takes only a few seconds. The entire appointment, including observation, typically lasts about 15-20 minutes.

Setting

The vaccine is usually administered in an outpatient clinic, doctor's office, pharmacy, or public health facility.

Personnel

• Licensed healthcare provider (e.g., nurse, pharmacist, physician)

Risks and Complications

• Common: Soreness at the injection site, mild fever, body aches, fatigue
• Rare: Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis), Guillain-Barré Syndrome (a serious neurological disorder)

Benefits

• Reduces the risk of flu illness, hospitalization, and death
• Protects both the individual and the community through herd immunity
• Benefits are typically realized within two weeks of vaccination

Recovery

• Normal activities can usually be resumed immediately
• Slight soreness or mild symptoms, if present, typically resolve within a few days
• No specific follow-up is generally required

Alternatives

• Quadrivalent flu vaccine (protects against four flu viruses)
• High-dose flu vaccine for elderly individuals
• Nasal spray flu vaccine (live attenuated)
• Discuss with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate flu vaccine based on individual circumstances

Patient Experience

• Some pain or discomfort at the injection site is common
• Mild flu-like symptoms (body aches, low fever) may occur but are generally short-lived
• Pain management can include over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen
• Most individuals feel well and can continue with daily activities immediately after the vaccination