What is the Fluad vaccine and how does it work?
Fluad is an influenza vaccine that contains the MF59 adjuvant, an oil‑in‑water emulsion that boosts the immune response. The vaccine includes antigens from the four influenza strains recommended for the current season and the adjuvant helps older adults generate stronger antibody levels [1][2].
Who is the Fluad vaccine meant for?
The FDA has approved Fluad Quadrivalent for adults 65 years and older, and Fluad Trivalent for people 18–64 years and for children 6 months to 65 years. The adjuvant makes the vaccine especially useful for the elderly, whose immune systems are weaker [2].
How does Fluad differ from standard flu shots?
Unlike conventional inactivated flu vaccines, Fluad contains MF59. Studies show higher seroprotection rates in seniors and a larger increase in antibody titers compared with non‑adjuvanted shots. Fluad also uses less egg protein, which can reduce the risk for people with egg allergies, although it is still not labeled for severe egg allergy [3].
What are the common side effects and safety concerns?
Typical reactions include soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site, low‑grade fever, and headache—usually mild and short‑lived. Rare severe allergic reactions can occur, and the vaccine should not be given to people who are allergic to any component or have a severe reaction to a prior dose [3].
Where and how can I get Fluad?
Fluad is available in many U.S. pharmacies, clinics, and health‑care centers. Patients can ask their primary‑care provider or pharmacist for the vaccine, and most vaccination sites accept it during the seasonal flu‑vaccination campaign.
How much does Fluad cost and is it covered by insurance?
A single dose of Fluad Quadrivalent typically costs between $60 and $70, but many insurance plans—including Medicare Part D—cover the cost for eligible seniors. Check with your insurer for details.
What does the research say about Fluad’s effectiveness?
Randomized trials show that Fluad leads to higher antibody titers and better protection against influenza in people 65 years and older, especially during seasons when the vaccine match is moderate. Real‑world data support an approximate 10–15 % absolute reduction in flu‑related hospitalizations among the vaccinated elderly population [4].
Who makes Fluad and what’s the history of its approval?
Sanofi Pasteur, a subsidiary of Sanofi, produces Fluad. The trivalent version received FDA approval in 2002, and the quadrivalent version was added in 2014. The MF59 adjuvant has been used in European vaccines since the 1990s and was licensed for the U.S. market in the early 2000s [2][5].
Are there any special storage or handling requirements?
Fluad should be stored at 2–8 °C (36–46 °F) and protected from light. Once thawed, it can be kept refrigerated for up to 7 days. Do not refreeze after thawing.
Is Fluad safe for people with egg allergies?
Because Fluad uses significantly less egg protein, it may be suitable for some individuals with egg allergies. However, it is still contraindicated for those with a history of severe egg‑allergy reactions. Consult a health‑care professional before vaccination.
Can Fluad be combined with other vaccines?
Fluad can be administered concurrently with other non‑influenza vaccines, such as a COVID‑19 vaccine, if indicated by a clinician. Timing recommendations may vary, so discuss the schedule with your provider.
What should I talk to my doctor about before getting Fluad?
Ask about any known allergies, especially to vaccine components or egg; confirm that you meet the age criteria; discuss your medical history (e.g., immunodeficiency, pregnancy); and clarify whether you should receive Fluad in the same visit as other shots.
Where to find more information?
The CDC’s influenza vaccination page, the FDA’s drug database, and Sanofi’s product information offer detailed, up‑to‑date facts about Fluad. Peer‑reviewed studies on adjuvanted flu vaccines are also available on PubMed.
Sources
[1] CDC: “Flu Vaccine: What You Need to Know.” https://www.cdc.gov/flu/prevent/vaccines-availability.html
[2] FDA: Fluad Product Information. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-health-care-providers/flua
[3] Sanofi Pasteur: Fluad Quadrivalent. https://www.sanofi.com/en/products/fluad
[4] Cochrane Review, 2023: “Adjuvanted influenza vaccines for older adults.” https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD012123.pub4
[5] WHO: MF59 adjuvant information. https://www.who.int/teams/immunization-vaccines-and-biologicals/vaccine-preparedness/adjuvants/mf59