Types of Flu Vaccines

There are many types of flu vaccines, including shots and nasal sprays. All flu vaccines for the 2022-2023 season are quadrivalent vaccines, designed to protect against four different flu viruses, including two influenza A viruses and two influenza B viruses.

If you have questions about which vaccine is best for you, talk to your doctor or other health care professional.

  • Manufactured using virus grown in eggs.
  • Approved for use in children as young as 6 months.
  • Most flu shots are given in the arm (muscle) with a needle.
  • Afluria Quadrivalent can be given either with a needle (for people 6 months and older) or with a jet injector (for people 18 through 64 years only).

  • The flu vaccine is given as an intranasal spray.
  • May be given to non-pregnant people 2-49 years of age.
  • Not recommended for pregnant people, immunocompromised people, or people with certain medical conditions.

  • This flu shot is completely egg-free.
  • Approved for use in people 18 years and older.
  • This shot is made without flu viruses and contains three times the antigen (the part of the vaccine that helps your body build up protection against flu viruses) than other standard-dose inactivated flu vaccines, to help create a stronger immune response.

  • This flu vaccine was cultured in the cells of mammalian origin instead of hens’ eggs. This vaccine is completely egg-free.
  • The age indication for this flu vaccine changed from 2 years and older to 6 months and older for the 2022-2023 flu season.

There are a large variety of flu vaccines so that even people with egg allergies, pregnant people, and people with chronic health conditions can get vaccinated with a vaccine that is appropriate for them.

Possible Side Effects

Some people do experience side effects with the flu vaccine. These generally resolve in a few hours or days. These side effects may include:

  • Injection site reactions such as soreness, redness, and swollen arm
  • Fever
  • Muscle Aches
  • Headache
  • Fatigue

In rare cases, a person should not get the flu shot. If you feel that you might fall into this category you should speak to your health care provider.

Get Vaccinated Today!

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