Influenza Vaccines for the new Virus Strain A (H1N1)
The first doses of influenza A (H1N1) vaccine could be available within five to six months after identification of the new virus. Prior to this date, small quantities of experimental vaccine will be made available to immunize volunteers in clinical trials to select the best vaccine formulations. Regulatory approval for the vaccines will be conducted [...]
Influenza Vaccine Side Effects
Different side effects can be associated with the influenza shot and LAIV.
The influenza shot: The viruses in the influenza shot are killed (inactivated), so you cannot get the flu from a influenza shot. Some minor side effects:
Aches
Fever (low)
Soreness
Redness
Local swelling where the shot was given
If these side effects occur, they begin soon after the [...]
Influenza Vaccine Effectiveness
The ability of influenza vaccine to protect a person depends on the age and health status of the person getting the flu vaccine, and the similarity or “match” between the virus strains in the vaccine and those in circulation. Testing has shown that both the influenza shot and the nasal-spray flu vaccine are effective at [...]
Who Should Not Be Vaccinated against Influenza
These are categories of people who should not be vaccinated without first consulting a physician:
Children less than 6 months of age (influenza vaccine is not approved for this age group).
People who have a moderate-to-severe illness with a fever (they should wait until they recover to get vaccinated.)
People who developed Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) within 6 [...]
Who Should Get Vaccinated against Influenza
In general, anyone who wants to reduce their chances of getting the flu can get vaccinated. However, it is especially recommended for people who are at high risk of having serious flu complications or people who live with or care for those at high risk for serious complications. During flu seasons when vaccine supplies are [...]
When to Get Influenza Vaccine Shot
Timing and duration of influenza seasons vary. Yearly influenza vaccination should begin in September or as soon as vaccine is available and continue throughout the influenza season, into December, January, and beyond. While flu outbreaks can happen as early as October, most of the time flu activity peaks in January or later.
Flu Vaccine Types
Currently pharmaceutical companies produce two types of vaccines:
The “flu shot”— an inactivated vaccine (containing killed virus) that is given with a needle, usually in the arm. The flu shot is approved for use in people older than 6 months, including healthy people and people with chronic medical conditions.
The nasal-spray flu vaccine — a vaccine [...]
Patent for Universal Influenza Vaccine Approach
Vical Incorporated (Nasdaq:VICL) announced today the issuance of U.S. Patent No. 7,537,768 covering the use of influenza virus gene sequences in a universal vaccine that could provide protection against circulating seasonal strains as well as emerging pandemic strains of influenza viruses.
Vical has patented a new influenza vaccine approach based on portions of the virus which [...]
Swine Flu Test Submitted to the FDA
Osmetech (LSE:OMH) has submitted a request to the US FDA for Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for its Respiratory Pathogen Test Panel test to be used to screen for the swine flu virus. Osmetech’s Respiratory Pathogen Test Panel test, which is expected to be launched as a research use only (RUO) product next quarter, detects and [...]
