Sanofi Pasteur recently received licensure of Fluzone® High-Dose (Influenza Virus Vaccine), which the vaccine maker says is designed to generate a more robust immune response to influenza in people 65 years of age and older. Data show people 65 years of age and older are more likely to die or be hospitalized from influenza and its complications than younger adults. While the 65-plus age group only represents about 15 percent of the US population, it accounts for 90 percent of all deaths due to seasonal influenza and its complications. More information about Fluzone® High-Dose Vaccine is available below or read the Fluzone Brochure containing full prescribing information.
Influenza Disease InformationPeople 65 years of age and older are more likely to die or be hospitalized from influenza and its complications than younger adults.1-3 In fact, while those 65 years of age and older only represent 15% of the US population, they account, on average, for 90% of all deaths due to seasonal influenza and its complications. Recent studies show that people 65 years of age and older have weakened immune systems and do not respond to the standard-dose vaccine as well as younger adults.4 Fluzone High-Dose Vaccine
Fluzone High-Dose vaccine was designed specifically to generate a more robust immune response to influenza in people 65 years of age and older. See attached product brochure and Prescribing Information (PI) for more information regarding Fluzone High-Dose vaccine. Providers have access to Fluzone High-Dose vaccine for the 2010-2011 season and can order the vaccine through http://www.vaccineshoppe.com. Indication
Fluzone High-Dose vaccine is indicated for active immunization of persons 65 years of age and older against influenza disease caused by influenza virus subtypes A and type B contained in the vaccine. This indication is based on the immune response elicited by Fluzone High-Dose vaccine; there have been no controlled clinical studies demonstrating a decrease in influenza disease after vaccination with Fluzone High-Dose vaccine. Safety Information
The most common local and systemic adverse reactions to Fluzone High-Dose vaccine include soreness, pain, and swelling at the vaccination site; fever, headache, malaise, and myalgia. Other adverse reactions may occur. Fluzone High-Dose vaccine should not be administered to anyone with a history of hypersensitivity to any vaccine component, including eggs and egg products. Fluzone High-Dose vaccine should not be administered to individuals who have a prior history of Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS). Vaccination with Fluzone High-Dose vaccine may not protect all individuals Before administering Fluzone High-Dose vaccine, please see accompanying brochure with full Prescribing Information.
