INFLUENZA VACCINE (SPLIT VIRION), INACTIVATED, QUADRIVALENT, 0.5ML

Indications

• Hepatitis A
• Hepatitis B
• Influenza
• Polio
• Rabies
• Typhoid fever

Dosage

Children: Refer to specific product guidelines for paediatric dosing, as it varies by vaccine type and indication.

Adults: Refer to specific product guidelines for adult dosing, as it varies by vaccine type and indication.

Mechanism of action

Inactivated vaccines work by introducing a form of the pathogen that cannot cause disease into the body. This stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies and memory cells specific to the pathogen, allowing for a robust immune response upon future exposure. The immune system recognizes the inactivated pathogen as foreign, leading to the activation of T-cells and B-cells, which are crucial for long-term immunity.

Pharmacodynamics

The pharmacodynamics of inactivated vaccines involve the generation of an adaptive immune response. After vaccination, the body produces specific antibodies against the inactivated pathogen. The response typically includes both humoral immunity, characterized by antibody production, and cellular immunity, involving T-cell activation. The duration of immunity can vary, and booster doses may be required to maintain adequate protection.

Pharmacokinetics

Inactivated vaccines do not have a pharmacokinetic profile like traditional drugs since they do not enter systemic circulation in the same manner. Following administration, the vaccine components are taken up by antigen-presenting cells, which process and present the antigens to T-cells. The immune response is initiated locally at the site of injection and can be influenced by factors such as the route of administration and the presence of adjuvants that enhance the immune response.

Adverse effects

• Injection site reactions (pain, swelling, redness)
• Fever
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Myalgia
• Chills

Precautions

• Assess for allergies to vaccine components
• Monitor for allergic reactions post-administration
• Consider underlying health conditions that may affect immune response

Pregnancy

Inactivated vaccines are generally considered safe during pregnancy, but individual risk-benefit assessment is recommended.

Breast-feeding

Inactivated vaccines can be administered during breastfeeding without concern for adverse effects in the infant.

Storage

Store in a refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C. Do not freeze.

Formulations

• Inactivated viral vaccines
• Inactivated bacterial vaccines

Indications

• Prevention of influenza virus infection
• Reduction of the severity of influenza illness
• Protection for high-risk groups against influenza complications

Dosage

Children: Refer to the BNF for Children for specific dosing recommendations for paediatric patients based on age and health status.

Adults: Refer to the BNF for specific dosing recommendations for adult patients based on the type of vaccine and individual health status.

Mechanism of action

Influenza vaccines stimulate the immune system to produce antibodies against the influenza virus. When the body is exposed to the virus, these antibodies help to prevent infection or mitigate the severity of the disease. The vaccines may contain inactivated virus or live attenuated virus, depending on the formulation.

Pharmacodynamics

Upon administration of the influenza vaccine, the immune system recognizes the viral antigens and generates a specific immune response. This response includes the production of antibodies, primarily immunoglobulin G (IgG), which can neutralize the virus and prevent its replication. The response varies based on individual health status and age.

Pharmacokinetics

The pharmacokinetics of influenza vaccines vary by type. After intramuscular or subcutaneous administration, the vaccine components are absorbed into the systemic circulation, leading to the production of antibodies. Peak antibody levels typically occur within 2 to 4 weeks after vaccination. The half-life of antibodies can vary, but they generally persist for several months, providing immunity against future infections.

Interactions

• normal immunoglobulin + influenza vaccine live: Unknown (decreases efficacy)

Pregnancy

Influenza vaccination is recommended during pregnancy, especially in the second and third trimesters, as it protects both mother and fetus.

Breast-feeding

Influenza vaccination is safe during breastfeeding and provides passive immunity to the infant.

Storage

Influenza vaccines should be stored in a refrigerator at 2 to 8 degrees Celsius. Do not freeze.

Indications

• Prevention of influenza in adults and children
• Protection for high-risk groups, including the elderly and those with chronic health conditions
• Seasonal influenza vaccination campaigns

Dosage

Children: Refer to specific vaccination guidelines for children, with recommendations depending on age and previous vaccination history.

Adults: Refer to specific vaccination guidelines for adults, typically administered as a single dose per season.

Mechanism of action

Quadrivalent vaccines work by introducing inactivated or attenuated virus strains into the body, which stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies. These antibodies recognize and neutralize the virus upon subsequent exposure, thereby providing immunity against the targeted strains.

Pharmacodynamics

The pharmacodynamics of quadrivalent vaccines involve the activation of the adaptive immune response, leading to the production of specific antibodies against the influenza virus. This response typically peaks 2 to 4 weeks after vaccination, providing protective immunity. Vaccination not only reduces the risk of infection but also mitigates the severity of the disease in vaccinated individuals.

Pharmacokinetics

Quadrivalent vaccines are administered via intramuscular injection, leading to rapid absorption into the systemic circulation. The half-life of the immune response varies based on individual factors but generally provides immunity for several months. The vaccine components are processed by the immune system, with antibodies being produced and maintained in memory B cells for long-term protection.

Adverse effects

• Injection site reactions
• Fever
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Myalgia

Precautions

• Use with caution in individuals with a history of allergic reactions to vaccine components
• Monitor for any severe allergic reactions post-vaccination
• Consider underlying health conditions that may affect immune response

Pregnancy

Quadrivalent vaccines can be administered during pregnancy if the benefits outweigh the risks, especially during outbreaks or high-risk situations.

Breast-feeding

Safe to administer during breastfeeding.

Storage

Store in the refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C. Do not freeze. Protect from light.

Formulations

• Quadrivalent inactivated influenza vaccine
• Quadrivalent human papillomavirus vaccine

Indications

• Prevention of infectious diseases such as measles, mumps, rubella, hepatitis B, influenza, and human papillomavirus (HPV)
• Travel vaccinations for diseases endemic to certain regions
• Vaccination for at-risk populations, such as those with compromised immune systems or specific occupational exposures

Dosage

Children: Dosage varies by vaccine type and age; refer to the BNF for Children for specific dosing information.

Adults: Dosage varies by vaccine type and indication; refer to specific guidelines for each vaccine.

Mechanism of action

Vaccines work by mimicking an infection. They introduce a harmless component of a pathogen (antigen) to the immune system, prompting the body to produce an immune response. This includes the generation of antibodies and memory cells that provide long-term immunity. Upon subsequent exposure to the actual pathogen, the immune system is primed to respond more rapidly and effectively.

Pharmacodynamics

The pharmacodynamics of vaccines involves the activation of both humoral and cellular immunity. Vaccines stimulate B cells to produce antibodies against the pathogen, while T cells are activated to destroy infected cells. This dual response helps to establish immunological memory, which enables a faster and more robust response upon re-exposure to the pathogen.

Pharmacokinetics

Vaccines are administered via various routes, including intramuscular, subcutaneous, and oral. After administration, the antigens are presented to antigen-presenting cells, which activate T cells and stimulate B cell proliferation and differentiation. The half-life of vaccine-induced immunity varies depending on the type of vaccine, with some providing lifelong immunity and others requiring booster doses to maintain protection.

Contra-indications

• Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to a component of the vaccine
• Severe immunocompromised state for live attenuated vaccines

Adverse effects

• Local reactions at the injection site (pain, redness, swelling)
• Fever
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Muscle pain
• Joint pain
• Nausea

Interactions

• Immunosuppressive medications may reduce vaccine efficacy
• Concurrent administration of some vaccines may require spacing to optimize immune response

Precautions

• History of allergic reactions to vaccines or vaccine components
• Pregnancy (specific vaccines may be contraindicated)
• Moderate to severe acute illness with or without fever

Pregnancy

Consult healthcare provider. Some vaccines are contraindicated during pregnancy, while others are recommended.

Breast-feeding

Generally considered safe, but consult healthcare provider regarding specific vaccines.

Storage

Store in a refrigerator at 2-8°C. Do not freeze. Protect from light.

Formulations

• Liquid suspension for injection
• Lyophilized powder for reconstitution