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Product Description
The influenza vaccine, commonly known as the flu shot, is a vaccine that helps protect against influenza viruses. Influenza is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses, which can cause mild to severe illness and can sometimes lead to hospitalization and even death.
The influenza vaccine works by stimulating the immune system to produce antibodies against the influenza viruses contained in the vaccine. These antibodies provide protection against infection if the vaccinated person is exposed to the influenza virus.
There are several types of influenza vaccines, including:
1. Inactivated influenza vaccine (IIV): This type of vaccine contains killed influenza viruses and is administered via injection. It is approved for use in people aged 6 months and older.
2. Live attenuated influenza vaccine (LAIV): This type of vaccine contains weakened influenza viruses and is administered via nasal spray. It is approved for use in healthy people aged 2 through 49 years who are not pregnant.
Influenza viruses are constantly changing, so the composition of the influenza vaccine is reviewed and updated annually to ensure it provides protection against the strains of influenza viruses that are expected to circulate during the upcoming flu season. It's recommended that individuals get vaccinated against influenza every year to ensure they are protected.
In addition to getting vaccinated, other preventive measures against influenza include practicing good hand hygiene, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and staying home when you are sick to prevent spreading the virus to others.