2008 Flu Vaccines Approved and Available
Susanne J. Pavlovich-Danis, RN, MSN, ARNP-C, CDE, CRRN
Monday October 20, 2008
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The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved this year’s influenza vaccines, which include new strains of the virus likely to cause flu in the United States during the 2008-2009 season. The six 2008-2009 vaccines approved include the injectable vaccines Afluria, Fluarix, FluLaval, Fluvirin, and Fluzone, as well as the nasally administered FluMist spray vaccine.
This year marks the first time in recent years that there is no shortage or delay in influenza vaccine availability. Widespread vaccine availability eliminates the need for rationing of vaccines to only the most vulnerable individuals, as recommended in prior years.
While this season’s vaccines contain three strains of the influenza virus that disease experts expect to be the most likely cause of the flu, there is always a possibility of a less than optimal match between what’s predicted and what virus strains actually end up causing the most illnesses. However, even if the vaccines and the circulating strains are not an exact match, the vaccine will provide some protection and may reduce the severity of the illness or prevent flu-related complications.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention continues to champion widespread use of influenza vaccination as a public health initiative. According to the CDC, every year an average of 5% to 20% of the U.S. population gets the flu, more than 200,000 are hospitalized from flu complications, and there are about 36,000 flu-related deaths. The elderly, young children, and people with chronic medical conditions are especially vulnerable. Vaccination of these groups is critical.
The FDA is also strongly recommending healthcare workers be vaccinated unless medically contraindicated. Statistics reveal that typically only 40% of healthcare workers in the United States are vaccinated against influenza. Unvaccinated healthcare workers are more likely to contract and transmit the flu virus.
Adverse reactions: The most common adverse reactions include pain at the injection site, headache, and muscle pain. Individuals with egg allergy must not receive the influenza vaccine.
Patient teaching: Unfortunately, some providers fail to clear out old vaccine stock before administering the new vaccines. Encourage patients to ask about their vaccine and view the medication vial to be sure they are receiving a 2008-2009 lot vaccine to ensure adequate protection. Vaccines manufactured for the 2006-2007 and 2007-2008 influenza seasons do not afford adequate coverage for the 2008-2009 season.
Caution: Review current drug information before administering and monitoring medications.
Drug News is compiled by Susanne J. Pavlovich-Danis, RN, MSN, ARNP-C, CDE, CRRN, who maintains a private practice in Plantation, Fla., and is professor and area chair for nursing at the University of Phoenix, Fort Lauderdale.
References
FDA approves 2008-2009 flu vaccines. FDA Web site. http://www.fda.gov/bbs/topics/NEWS/2008/NEW01872.html. Accessed October 15, 2008.
