The flu vaccine comes in multiple forms and are approved for different age groups. However, neither vaccine is recommended over another so long as the recipient falls into the approved age group. Some have a specific formulation for elders while others are approved for children as young as six months old. It is wise for anyone 6 months or older to be vaccinated to help protect against more severe flu symptoms and while your health care provider will provide you with the correct vaccine for you, let’s take a closer look at the different types and their intended age groups.
Quadrivalent Flu Vaccine
The quadrivalent flu vaccine is used to protect against four strains of flu viruses (two influenza A and two influenza B viruses). There are multiple kinds of these vaccines including Alfuria Quadrivalent and Fluzone Quadrivalent. Some are approved for children as young as 6 months old while the recombinant flu shot is only intended for people 18 or older.
Trivalent Flu Vaccine
Trivalent flu vaccines protect against two influenza A viruses and one B virus. Two types of the trivalent are vaccines for seniors. Both the Fluad vaccine and the high-dose Fluzone vaccine are approved for patients 65 years and older. However, there are other types that are approved for people five and up.
Jet Injection Flu Vaccines
Both the quadrivalent flu vaccine and the trivalent have the option of being used with a jet injector. A jet injector uses a narrow and high-pressure stream of water rather than a needle to penetrate the skin. This type of injection is only approved for ages 18 through 64. It does away with the use of a needle and the potential for needle injuries, but is not any more effective at administering the flu vaccine than a regular needle injection.
Get Your Flu Shot Today
No matter what kind of vaccine or injector your doctor uses, it is wise to get your flu shot as soon as possible. While you may still get sick after having the vaccine, it can help reduce the symptoms and the likelihood of further complications. You can get the vaccine in many places like your family doctor’s office or even most pharmacies and it only takes minutes to do, so go get your flu shot today!