Name of the Procedure:

Influenza Virus Vaccine, Quadrivalent (aIIV4), Inactivated, Adjuvanted, Preservative-Free, 0.5 mL Dosage, for Intramuscular Use

Summary

The Influenza Virus Vaccine, Quadrivalent (aIIV4), is an annual flu vaccination that helps to protect against four different strains of the influenza virus, which can cause severe respiratory illness. This vaccine is inactivated, meaning it contains no live virus and hence cannot cause the flu. It is adjuvanted and preservative-free, enhancing the immune response and minimizing potential side effects, respectively. The vaccine is administered through an intramuscular injection in a 0.5 mL dosage.

Purpose

The vaccine is designed to protect against influenza, commonly known as the flu, which can lead to serious health complications, especially in high-risk populations. The goals are to reduce the incidence of flu infections, decrease the severity of symptoms in those who do contract the flu, and prevent flu-related hospitalizations and deaths.

Indications

• Individuals aged 65 years and older
• People with chronic medical conditions such as diabetes or heart disease
• Pregnant women
• Healthcare workers
• Individuals with a weakened immune system

Preparation

• Wear clothing that allows easy access to the upper arm.
• Inform the healthcare provider of any allergies, especially to eggs or vaccine components.
• No fasting or special medications are required beforehand.

Procedure Description

1. The patient’s arm is cleaned with an antiseptic wipe.
2. A healthcare provider prepares a 0.5 mL dose of the vaccine.
3. The patient is asked to relax their arm.
4. The vaccine is injected into the upper muscle of the arm using a sterile needle.
5. A small bandage is placed over the injection site.

No anesthesia or sedation is necessary for this procedure.

Duration

The entire procedure typically takes less than 10 minutes.

Setting

This vaccination is performed in various healthcare settings, including outpatient clinics, pharmacies, doctor's offices, and community health centers.

Personnel

• Administered by a trained healthcare professional such as a nurse, nurse practitioner, or physician.

Risks and Complications

Common risks include:

• Soreness at the injection site
• Low-grade fever
• Muscle aches

Rare risks include:

• Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis)
• Guillain-Barre Syndrome (very rare)

Benefits

• Reduces the likelihood of contracting influenza.
• Lowers the severity of flu symptoms if the virus is contracted.
• Decreases the risk of flu-related complications, hospitalizations, and death.
• Protection typically begins within two weeks of vaccination.

Recovery

• Most patients experience minimal discomfort.
• Over-the-counter pain relief can be used if soreness occurs.
• Normal activities can be resumed immediately.
• Follow-up is generally not required unless complications arise.

Alternatives

• Other forms of the flu vaccine, such as the high-dose vaccine for people aged 65 and older, or the nasal spray vaccine for individuals aged 2-49 years who are non-pregnant.
• The main differentiator is the formulation and method of administration, each with specific pros and cons depending on patient age, health status, and preference.

Patient Experience

• Patients typically experience a brief pinching sensation during the injection.
• Post-injection soreness or redness may occur but generally resolves within a few days.
• Comfort measures include using a cold compress on the injection site and taking mild pain relievers if needed.