Vaxigrip Tetra

What is this drug and what is it used for?

Vaxigrip Tetra is a vaccine. This vaccine helps to protect you or your child against influenza (flu).

The use of Vaxigrip Tetra should be based on official recommendations. When a person is given Vaxigrip Tetra, the immune system (the body’s natural defence system) will produce its own protection (antibodies) against the disease. None of the ingredients in the vaccine can cause flu.

Flu is a disease that can spread rapidly and is caused by different types of strains that can change every year. Due to this potential change in circulating strains on a yearly basis, as well as the duration of protection intended by vaccine, vaccination is recommended every year. The greatest risk of catching flu is during the cold months, between October and March. If you or your child were not vaccinated in the autumn, it is still sensible to be vaccinated up until the spring since you run the risk of catching flu until then. Your doctor will be able to recommend the best time to be vaccinated.

Vaxigrip Tetra is intended to protect you or your child against the four strains of virus contained in the vaccine about 2 to 3 weeks after the injection. In addition, if you or your child are exposed to flu immediately before or after your vaccination, you or your child could still develop the illness as the incubation period for flu is a few days.

The vaccine will not protect you or your child against the common cold, even though some of the symptoms are similar to flu.

How is this drug given?

Your doctor or nurse will administer the recommended dose of the vaccine as an injection into the muscle or under the skin.

When Is It Given?

Vaxigrip Tetra should be given annually.

Adults:

One 0.5 ml dose

Children:

Children from 6 months to 17 years of age receive one 0.5 ml dose.

If your child is less than 9 years old and has not been previously vaccinated against flu, a second dose of 0.5 ml should be given after an interval of at least 4 weeks.