Name of the Procedure:

Influenza Virus Vaccine, Split Virus, When Administered to Individuals 3 Years of Age and Older, for Intramuscular Use (Flulaval)

Common Name(s): Flu shot, Flulaval vaccination
Technical/Medical Term: Influenza vaccine, split virus, intramuscular administration

Summary

The Flulaval flu shot is a vaccination given to individuals aged 3 years and older to protect them from the influenza virus. The vaccine is administered as an injection into a muscle, typically in the upper arm.

Purpose

The flu shot is designed to prevent influenza, a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. The primary goal is to reduce the risk of flu-related complications, hospitalizations, and severe illness by boosting the immune system's ability to fight off the virus.

Indications

• Individuals aged 3 years and older
• Persons with chronic health conditions (e.g., asthma, diabetes, heart disease)
• Elderly individuals or those with weakened immune systems
• Healthcare workers and caregivers
• Pregnant women

Preparation

• No fasting is required.
• Inform your healthcare provider of any allergies, especially to eggs or previous flu vaccines.
• Wear clothing with easy access to the upper arm.
• Ensure you're not currently ill with a fever or acute infection.

Procedure Description

1. The healthcare provider explains the procedure and addresses any concerns.
2. The patient is seated, and the upper arm is exposed.
3. The provider cleans the injection site with an alcohol swab.
4. Using a sterile syringe, the provider administers the vaccine intramuscularly into the deltoid muscle of the upper arm.
5. The injection site is covered with a band-aid, and post-vaccine care instructions are provided.

Tools/Equipment: Sterile syringe, alcohol swab, band-aid
Anesthesia/Sedation Details: None required

Duration

The injection takes only a few seconds, while the entire process, including preparation and post-injection observation, typically takes about 10-15 minutes.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in outpatient settings such as doctors' offices, clinics, or pharmacies.

Personnel

• Nurses
• Healthcare providers (e.g., doctors, physician assistants)

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site
• Mild fever
• Muscle aches

Rare Risks:

• Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis)
• Guillain-Barré Syndrome (an extremely rare neurological condition)

Management of Complications:

• Over-the-counter pain relievers for mild symptoms
• Immediate medical attention for severe allergic reactions

Benefits

• Reduced risk of contracting influenza
• Decreased likelihood of severe flu symptoms and complications
• Reduced spread of influenza within communities
  Benefit Realization: Benefits typically begin about two weeks post-vaccination.

Recovery

• Patients can resume normal activities immediately after receiving the vaccine.
• Monitor the injection site for any signs of adverse reactions.
• Follow-up appointments are not typically necessary unless complications arise.

Alternatives

• Nasal spray flu vaccine (for eligible individuals)

• Antiviral medications (for treating influenza, not for prevention)

  Pros of Flulaval: High efficacy, widely available
  Cons of Alternatives: Limited to specific age groups, underlying conditions, or not as effective as preventive measures

Patient Experience

During the procedure, patients may feel a brief pinch or sting at the injection site. Post-injection, there might be mild soreness or redness, which usually resolves within a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage discomfort, and staying hydrated aids overall recovery.