FDA OKs First Microinjection Flu Vaccine

[The Straight Story]

FDA OKs First Microinjection Flu Vaccine

WASHINGTON -- The FDA has approved the first influenza vaccine administered through a novel intradermal microinjection.

The Fluzone Intradermal vaccine is injected through an ultra-fine, 0.6 inch needle that is 90% shorter than most intramuscular flu vaccine needles, according to a statement from manufacturer Sanofi Pasteur. The vaccine works by generating an immune response from dendritic cells in the skin, according to the statement.

The Fluzone Intradermal vaccine is indicated for adult patients (age 18 to 64) for the subtype A and type B influenza virus, and consists of a 0.5 mL or 0.1 mL, prefilled dosage with 15 mcg and 9 mcg of hemagglutinin, respectively, per strain of influenza.

Approval was based on phase III clinical trial data of 4,276 adults randomized to receive Fluzone via intradermal or intramuscular routes. Those in the intradermal group had a similar immunologic response to those in the intramuscular group, according to Sanofi Pasteur.

http://www.medpagetoday.com/PublicHealthPolicy/FDAGeneral/26420

[Odin2005]

1. This will drive the anti-vaxers bonkers.

[Maru Kitteh]

2. Fantastic! This is a wonderful advancement. Flu kills 37,000+ every year in this country

Young/old weak/strong well/ill...... nobody is beyond it's reach. Vaccine is the best defense. Period.