HNVAC , Inactivated Influenza A(H1N1) 2009 vaccine is a cell culture derived vaccine, produced using Madin-Darby Canine Kidney (MDCK) cells. The virus from cell culture supernatant is harvested, clarified by microfiltration, inactivated and purified by chromatography. The purified virus containing haemagglutinin and neuraminidase antigens are then sterile-filtered.
How is the HNVAC vaccine available?
HNVAC vaccine was available in ready to inject formulation as slightly cloudy liquid form.
It is available in a prefilled sterile syringe for injection or a ready to inject liquid in a vial.
It is available in dose 0.5 ml. It is available in single dose packet.
How is the HNVAC vaccine stored?
HNVAC vaccine is stored at 2-8 degree Celsius as recommended by the manufacturer.
Temperature range is maintained by the cold chain.
The vaccine if accidentally frozen should be discarded and not used. The temperature range is maintained at all stages of storage and transport.
While discarding vaccine all the local biomedical waste management precautions are followed to avoid environmental damage.
How is the HNVAC vaccine given?
HNVAC vaccine is given by injection on a shoulder in adults and adolescent.
For adults and adolescents it can be given on the deltoid region of the shoulder.
All standard safe injection precautions need to be taken.
After use the disposables and needles are to be discarded as per the guidelines for biomedical waste management protocols.
The expired vaccine should be discarded as per BMW protocols so that it is not harmful to the environment.
At what age HNVAC vaccine is given?
HNVAC vaccine was approved for use for those age above 18 years and up to 64 years.
How does the HNVAC vaccine work?
HNVAC vaccine is an inactivated virus vaccine. It contains split particles of virus.
This is an active form of immunization. When this vaccine is injected to an individual the antigens in it get inside the body.
These antigens are recognized by the immune system of the individuals. The immune system develops mechanisms to fight against the virus and if real infection takes place the immune response is rapidly ramped up and the disease is prevented.
Only the drawback is influenza virus mutates rapidly and so because of this the new version of vaccine comes yearly. It is needed to be given yearly.
What are the side effects of HNVAC vaccine?
Side effects of Influvac vaccine are usually mild and can be managed at home very easily.
· Fever can be there after the vaccination. It can be mild to moderate grade and can be managed at home by paracetamol and sponging. Fever may last for 1-3 days usually reduces with time.
· Local pain and redness swelling can come at the injection site. It may last for 1-3 days. It can be easily managed with paracetamol and local cold fomentation.
· Headache can come in some patients after vaccination. Usually reduces in 1-3 days. This headache can be managed at home with paracetamol.
· Muscular pain and fatigue seen after HNVAC vaccination may last for 1-3 days. It generally reduces on its own.
· Allergy and anaphylactic reaction: This is a very rare side effect. The vaccine should not be given to those who are allergic to the component/s of the vaccine. The anaphylactic reaction should be managed very swiftly. The skilled person, necessary drugs and equipment should be available for the management.
To whom this vaccine was contraindicated?
This vaccine was contraindicated for those:
- Who were allergic to any of its components.
- Who had got anaphylactic reaction at the time of the previous dose.
- Those who were less than 18 years of age.