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The inactivated vaccine consists of three strains, two of influenza A (H3N2,
H1N1) and one of influenza B. The strains included represent the most recent
antigenic variants. The strains in the vaccine for the 2000-2001 season are
A/Panama/2007/99 (H3N2)-like, A/New Caledonia/20/99 (H1N1)-like,
B/Yamanashi/166/98. The viruses are grown in embryonated eggs and are
noninfectious. The vaccine is approximately 70-80% effective dependent on the
age and immunocompetence of the vaccine recipient and the similarity between the
virus strains in the vaccine and those circulating in the community. When the
match is close, the effectiveness is at least 70 %. The vaccine is safe. The
only contraindication is allergy to eggs and other components in the vaccine.
Soreness at the site of injection is the most common complaint. Fever, malaise
and myalgia are infrequent. The vaccine should be given each year prior to the
influenza season. Live influenza vaccine, given intranasally, has been shown by
clinical trials to be effective and safe. However, it is not commercially
available. |
