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COVID-19 vs Flu

Table of Contents

COVID-19 vs Flu

Similarities and Differences between COVID-19 and Flu

COVID-19 and influenza (flu) are both contagious respiratory illnesses, but they are caused by different viruses. Learn the differences between COVID-19 and the flu.

Can I get COVID-19 and the flu at the same time?

Image by CDC

Overview

Can I get COVID-19 and the flu at the same time?

Image by CDC

Can I get COVID-19 and the flu at the same time?

Flu and COVID-19 are caused by different viruses that can be spread among people. Flu is caused by the influenza virus. COVID-19 is caused by SARS-CoV-2. Both can give you a fever, cough, headaches, and body aches.

Image by CDC

What Is the Difference Between Influenza (Flu) and COVID-19?

Influenza (flu) and COVID-19 are both contagious respiratory illnesses, but they are caused by different viruses. COVID-19 is caused by infection with a coronavirus first identified in 2019. Flu is caused by infection with a flu virus (influenza viruses).

From what we know, COVID-19 spreads more easily than flu. Efforts to maximize the proportion of people in the United States who are up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines remain critical to ending the COVID-19 pandemic.

Compared to flu, COVID-19 can cause more serious illnesses in some people. COVID-19 can also take longer before people show symptoms, and people can remain contagious for longer periods of time. More information about differences between flu and COVID-19 is available in the different sections below.

You cannot tell the difference between flu and COVID-19 just by looking at the symptoms alone because they have some of the same symptoms. That’s why testing is needed to tell what the illness is and to confirm a diagnosis. Testing is also important because it can reveal if someone has both the flu and COVID-19 at the same time.

While more is learned every day about COVID-19 and the virus that causes it, there are still things, such as post-COVID conditions (also known as long COVID), that are unknown.

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Additional Materials (6)

Covid-19 variant

Covid-19 variant

Image by Wilfried Pohnke

This browser does not support the video element.

3D Coronavirus

A 3D model and animation of 2019 Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV).

Video by https://www.myupchar.com

Cold, flu or COVID-19? How to tell the difference

Video by Global News/YouTube

Is it the flu, COVID-19 or allergies? Here's the difference

Video by WFAA/YouTube

Flu and COVID-19: Similarities and Differences

Video by Johns Hopkins Medicine/YouTube

Flu vs. COVID-19: Which One Is Deadlier?

Video by Cleveland Clinic/YouTube

Covid-19 variant

Wilfried Pohnke

0:12

3D Coronavirus

https://www.myupchar.com

2:51

Cold, flu or COVID-19? How to tell the difference

Global News/YouTube

1:14

Is it the flu, COVID-19 or allergies? Here's the difference

WFAA/YouTube

4:37

Flu and COVID-19: Similarities and Differences

Johns Hopkins Medicine/YouTube

0:26

Flu vs. COVID-19: Which One Is Deadlier?

Cleveland Clinic/YouTube

How It Spreads

Sneezing

Image by CDC/ Brian Judd; Photo credit: James Gathany

Sneezing

This 2009 photograph captured a sneeze in progress, revealing the plume of salivary droplets as they are expelled in a large cone-shaped array from this man’s open mouth, thereby, dramatically illustrating the reason one needs to cover his/her mouth when coughing, or sneezing, in order to protect others from germ exposure.

Image by CDC/ Brian Judd; Photo credit: James Gathany

Flu vs COVID-19: How It Spreads

Similarities:

Both COVID-19 and flu can spread from person to person between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet). Both are spread mainly by large and small particles containing virus that are expelled when people with the illness (COVID-19 or flu) cough, sneeze, or talk. These particles can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby and possibly be inhaled into the lungs. In some circumstances, such as indoor settings with poor ventilation, small particles might be spread further than 6 feet and cause infections.

Although most spread is by inhalation, it may be possible that a person can get infected by touching another person (for example, shaking hands with someone who has the virus on their hands), or by touching a surface or object that has virus on it, and then touching their own mouth, nose, or eyes.

Both flu viruses and the virus that causes COVID-19 can be spread to others by people before they begin showing symptoms; by people with very mild symptoms; and by people who never experience symptoms (asymptomatic people).

Differences:

While the virus that causes COVID-19 and flu viruses are thought to spread in similar ways, the virus that causes COVID-19 is generally more contagious than flu viruses. Also, COVID-19 has been observed to have more superspreading events than flu. This means the virus that causes COVID-19 can quickly and easily spread to a lot of people and result in continual spreading among people as time progresses.

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Additional Materials (4)

Sneeze

Antibiotics should only be used to treat bacterial infections, not viral infections as they will not work against upper respiratory illnesses caused by viruses.

Image by U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Kenna Jackson

COVID-19 IS NOT transmitted through houseflies

To date, there is no evidence or information to suggest that the COVID-19 virus transmitted through houseflies. The virus that cause COVID-19 spreads primarily through droplets generated when an infected person coughs, sneezes or speaks. You can also become infected by touching a contaminated surface and then touching your eyes, nose or mouth before washing your hands. To protect yourself, keep at least 1-metre distance from others and disinfect frequently-touched surfaces. Clean your hands thoroughly and often and avoid touching your eyes, mouth and nose.

Image by World Health Organization (WHO)

COVID 19 (Corona Virus Update) : When to discontinue the home isolation?

Video by Medinaz/YouTube

Flu Virus 101 | National Geographic

Video by National Geographic/YouTube

Sneeze

U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Kenna Jackson

COVID-19 IS NOT transmitted through houseflies

World Health Organization (WHO)

2:47

COVID 19 (Corona Virus Update) : When to discontinue the home isolation?

Medinaz/YouTube

3:26

Flu Virus 101 | National Geographic

National Geographic/YouTube

How Long Someone Can Spread the Virus

Influenza Virus and Covid Virus

Image by CDC

Influenza Virus and Covid Virus

Influenza Virus and Covid Virus

Image by CDC

Flu vs COVID-19: How Long Someone Can Spread the Virus

Similarities:

For both COVID-19 and flu, it’s possible to spread the virus for at least 1 day before experiencing any symptoms.

Differences:

If a person has COVID-19, they could be contagious for a longer time than if they have flu.

Flu

Most people with flu are contagious for about 1 day before they show symptoms.

Older children and adults with flu appear to be most contagious during the first 3-4 days of their illness, but many people remain contagious for about 7 days.

Infants and people with weakened immune systems can be contagious for even longer.

COVID-19

How long someone can spread the virus that causes COVID-19 is still being studied.

Here’s what we know from studies of prior variants, including Delta:

On average, people can begin spreading the virus 2-3 days before their symptoms begin, but infectiousness peaks 1 day before their symptoms begin.
On average, people can continue to spread the virus another 8 days after their symptoms began.

This information is from studies of prior variants. We still have much to learn about new variants, including Omicron. CDC will share findings from ongoing studies as soon as they are available.

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Additional Materials (3)

Catching and spreading the flu | Infectious diseases | Health & Medicine | Khan Academy

Video by khanacademymedicine/YouTube

7 ways to help prevent flu germs from spreading

Video by MD Anderson Cancer Center/YouTube

Are pets at risk of getting or spreading COVID-19?

Video by Mayo Clinic/YouTube

10:53

Catching and spreading the flu | Infectious diseases | Health & Medicine | Khan Academy

khanacademymedicine/YouTube

0:57

7 ways to help prevent flu germs from spreading

MD Anderson Cancer Center/YouTube

0:51

Are pets at risk of getting or spreading COVID-19?

Mayo Clinic/YouTube

People at High-Risk

Older Adult and COVID-19

Image by TheVisualMD/mohamed Hassan

Older Adult and COVID-19

The risk for severe illness with COVID-19 increases with age, with older adults at highest risk.

Image by TheVisualMD/mohamed Hassan

Flu vs COVID-19: People at High-Risk for Severe Illness

Similarities

Both COVID-19 and flu illness can result in severe illness and complications. Those at highest risk include:

Older adults
People with certain underlying medical conditions (including infants and children)
Pregnant people

Differences:

Overall, COVID-19 seems to cause more serious illnesses in some people.

Serious COVID-19 illness resulting in hospitalization and death can occur even in healthy people.

Some people that had COVID-19 can go on to develop post-COVID conditions or multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS).

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Additional Materials (3)

Pregnant, breastfeeding women met with mixed messages about COVID-19 vaccines

Video by CBC News: The National/YouTube

Why does being pregnant put me at a higher risk for flu?

Video by U.S. Department of Health and Human Services/YouTube

Sensitive content

This media may include sensitive content

Pregnant Woman with Fetus at 9 Months lateral view

A woman's body undergoes enormous changes during pregnancy. At 9 months, the uterus receives one fifth of the woman's prepregnancy blood supply. The volume of blood filtered by the kidneys reaches its maximum at 16-24 weeks and remains at that level until delivery. Breasts enlarge and, in the last weeks of pregnancy, start to produce colostrum. Due to high levels of progesterone during pregnancy, less carbon dioxide is carried in the blood and a pregnant woman must breathe faster and exhale more deeply to keep carbon dioxide levels low. Pregnant women tend to be more out of breath during exertion, especially in the last weeks of pregnancy. Image 3 of 3.

Image by TheVisualMD

2:00

Pregnant, breastfeeding women met with mixed messages about COVID-19 vaccines

CBC News: The National/YouTube

0:41

Why does being pregnant put me at a higher risk for flu?

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services/YouTube

Sensitive content

This media may include sensitive content

Pregnant Woman with Fetus at 9 Months lateral view

TheVisualMD

Symptoms

Muscle or body aches because of Covid

Image by TheVisualMD/CDC

Muscle or body aches because of Covid

Muscle or body aches because of Covid

Image by TheVisualMD/CDC

Flu vs COVID-19: Signs and Symptoms

Similarities:

Both COVID-19 and flu can have varying degrees of symptoms, ranging from no symptoms (asymptomatic) to severe symptoms. Common symptoms that COVID-19 and flu share include:

Fever or feeling feverish/having chills
Cough
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
Fatigue (tiredness)
Sore throat
Runny or stuffy nose
Muscle pain or body aches
Headache
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Change in or loss of taste or smell, although this is more frequent with COVID-19.

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Additional Materials (8)

COVID-19 Coronavirus Symptoms

Common signs of coronavirus include dry cough, difficulty breathing, fatigue, and fever. Signs may be mild enough that the infected person does not realize they are spreading the virus. Stay home and call a doctor if you show symptoms.

Image by MissLunaRose12/Wikimedia

Covid-19 Symptoms

Covid-19 Symptoms

Image by Hatice EROL

COVID-19 Update 3: Symptoms of COVID-19 [New Version in Description]

Video by Medmastery/YouTube

Doctor With COVID-19 Describes Symptoms As ‘Pain Everywhere’ | NBC News NOW

Video by NBC News/YouTube

Loss of taste and smell: early COVID-19 symptoms? | National Kidney Foundation

Video by National Kidney Foundation/YouTube

How To Identify Early Symptoms Of COVID-19 | NBC News NOW

Video by NBC News/YouTube

Is it the flu, COVID-19 or allergies? Here's the difference

Video by WFAA/YouTube

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV): Signs, Symptoms and How to Prevent It

Video by Texas Children’s Hospital/YouTube

COVID-19 Coronavirus Symptoms

MissLunaRose12/Wikimedia

Covid-19 Symptoms

Hatice EROL

2:37

COVID-19 Update 3: Symptoms of COVID-19 [New Version in Description]

Medmastery/YouTube

2:37

Doctor With COVID-19 Describes Symptoms As ‘Pain Everywhere’ | NBC News NOW

NBC News/YouTube

1:44

Loss of taste and smell: early COVID-19 symptoms? | National Kidney Foundation

National Kidney Foundation/YouTube

13:44

How To Identify Early Symptoms Of COVID-19 | NBC News NOW

NBC News/YouTube

1:14

Is it the flu, COVID-19 or allergies? Here's the difference

WFAA/YouTube

2:47

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV): Signs, Symptoms and How to Prevent It

Texas Children’s Hospital/YouTube

How Long Symptoms Appear After Exposure

Child Coughing with Covid Virus

Image by TheVisualMD/CDC

Child Coughing with Covid Virus

Child Coughing with Covid Virus

Image by TheVisualMD/CDC

Flu vs COVID-19: How Long Symptoms Appear After Exposure and Infection

Similarities:

For both COVID-19 and flu, 1 or more days can pass from when a person becomes infected to when they start to experience symptoms of illness.

Differences:

If a person has COVID-19, it could take them longer to experience symptoms than if they have flu.

Flu

Typically, a person may experience symptoms anywhere from 1 to 4 days after infection.

COVID-19

Typically, a person may experience symptoms anywhere from 2 to 14 days after infection.

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Additional Materials (2)

Misconceptions about Flu and the Flu Vaccine

Video by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)/YouTube

How Long Are You Contagious With The Flu?

Video by NPR's Skunk Bear/YouTube

10:27

Misconceptions about Flu and the Flu Vaccine

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)/YouTube

2:59

How Long Are You Contagious With The Flu?

NPR's Skunk Bear/YouTube

Complications

This browser does not support the video element.

COVID-19 Lung Infection

Video by StoryMD

This browser does not support the video element.

COVID-19 Lung Infection

Healthy lungs and lungs infected with COVID-19. Lungs infected with COVID-19 show a white haziness described as "ground glass opacity" on chest x-rays and CT scans.

Video by StoryMD

Flu vs COVID-19: Complications

Similarities:

BothCOVID-19 and flu can result in complications, including:

Pneumonia
Respiratory failure
Acute respiratory distress syndrome (fluid in the lungs)
Sepsis (a life-threatening illness caused by the body’s extreme response to an infection)
Cardiac injury (for example, heart attacks and stroke)
Multiple-organ failure (respiratory failure, kidney failure, shock)
Worsening of chronic medical conditions (involving the lungs, heart, or nervous system or diabetes)
Inflammation of the heart, brain, or muscle tissues
Secondary infections (bacterial or fungal infections that can occur in people who have already been infected with flu or COVID-19)

Differences:

Flu

Most people who get flu will recover on their own in a few days to two weeks, but some people will experience severe complications, requiring hospitalization. Some of these complications are listed above. Secondary bacterial infections are more common with influenza than with COVID-19.

Diarrhea is more common in young children with flu than in adults with flu.

COVID-19

Additional complications associated with COVID-19 can include:

Blood clots in the veins and arteries of the lungs, heart, legs or brain
Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C) and in Adults (MIS-A)

Post-COVID Conditions are a range of symptoms that can last weeks or months after first being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 or can appear weeks after infection. Long COVID can happen to anyone who has had COVID-19, even if their illness was mild, or if they had no symptoms.

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Additional Materials (13)

How to Know if You Have the Flu: Flu Symptoms

Video by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)/YouTube

How "Long COVID" is Affecting Patients

Video by NOVA PBS Official/YouTube

Is it the flu, COVID-19 or allergies? Here's the difference

Video by WFAA/YouTube

Monoclonal Antibody Therapy for COVID-19: What Is It and How Does It Work?

Video by Combat COVID/YouTube

'That Meatball Tastes Like Gasoline’: Thousands suffer smell and taste disorders after COVID-19

Video by WTHR/YouTube

Do People with Certain Blood Types Have Worse Covid-19 Symptoms?

Video by Healthcare Triage/YouTube

I Think or Know I had COVID-19, and I had Symptoms. When Can I Be With Others?

Video by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)/YouTube

How to tell the difference between flu, common cold and COVID-19 | ABC7 Chicago

Video by ABC 7 Chicago/YouTube

COVID vs Common Cold vs Flu - Which one is it? (Doctor Explains)

Video by Doctor Mike Hansen/YouTube

How does coronavirus attack your body? | COVID-19 Special

Video by DW News/YouTube

COVID-19 and the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2

Video by Doctablet/YouTube

Here are the six new possible symptoms of COVID-19 | USA TODAY

Video by USA TODAY/YouTube

COVID-19 a visual summary of the new coronavirus pandemic

Video by Armando Hasudungan/YouTube

2:22

How to Know if You Have the Flu: Flu Symptoms

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)/YouTube

5:06

How "Long COVID" is Affecting Patients

NOVA PBS Official/YouTube

1:14

Is it the flu, COVID-19 or allergies? Here's the difference

WFAA/YouTube

2:28

Monoclonal Antibody Therapy for COVID-19: What Is It and How Does It Work?

Combat COVID/YouTube

6:17

'That Meatball Tastes Like Gasoline’: Thousands suffer smell and taste disorders after COVID-19

WTHR/YouTube

5:19

Do People with Certain Blood Types Have Worse Covid-19 Symptoms?

Healthcare Triage/YouTube

0:30

I Think or Know I had COVID-19, and I had Symptoms. When Can I Be With Others?

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)/YouTube

2:06

How to tell the difference between flu, common cold and COVID-19 | ABC7 Chicago

ABC 7 Chicago/YouTube

13:02

COVID vs Common Cold vs Flu - Which one is it? (Doctor Explains)

Doctor Mike Hansen/YouTube

11:40

How does coronavirus attack your body? | COVID-19 Special

DW News/YouTube

9:19

COVID-19 and the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2

Doctablet/YouTube

0:54

Here are the six new possible symptoms of COVID-19 | USA TODAY

USA TODAY/YouTube

11:50

**COVID-19** a visual summary of the new coronavirus pandemic

Armando Hasudungan/YouTube

Treatment

How Can I Get Monoclonal Antibodies?

Image by Combat COVID

How Can I Get Monoclonal Antibodies?

How Can I Get Monoclonal Antibodies?

Image by Combat COVID

Flu vs COVID-19: Approved Treatments

Similarities:

People at higher risk of complications or who have been hospitalized for COVID-19 or flu should receive supportive medical care to help relieve symptoms and complications.

Differences:

Flu

Prescription influenza antiviral drugs are FDA-approved to treat flu.

People who are hospitalized with flu or who are at increased risk of complications and have flu symptoms are recommended to be treated with antiviral drugs as soon as possible after illness onset.

COVID-19

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has developed guidance on treatment of COVID-19, which is regularly updated as new evidence on treatment options emerge.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved one drug, remdesivir (Veklury®), to treat COVID-19. FDA has issued emergency use authorization (EUAs) to allow healthcare providers to use investigational products that are not yet approved, or that are approved for other uses, to treat patients with COVID-19 if certain legal requirements are met.

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Additional Materials (8)

Learn ways to prevent, treat, or help fight COVID-19.

Video by Combat COVID/YouTube

Post-COVID Recovery

Video by Mayo Clinic/YouTube

Coronavirus Update 116: Pfizer COVID 19 Vaccine Explained (Biontech)

Video by MedCram - Medical Lectures Explained CLEARLY/YouTube

Treatment Options for COVID-19

Video by U.S. Food and Drug Administration/YouTube

COVID 19 TREATMENT

Video by Diseases Simplified/YouTube

Scripps Doctor Discusses Newly Approved Flu Treatment - KUSI

Video by Scripps Health/YouTube

H1N1 and Seasonal Flu Treatment

Video by Albert Einstein College of Medicine/YouTube

New flu treatment gets FDA approval

Video by CBS News/YouTube

0:56

Learn ways to prevent, treat, or help fight COVID-19.

Combat COVID/YouTube

3:25

Post-COVID Recovery

Mayo Clinic/YouTube

22:32

Coronavirus Update 116: Pfizer COVID 19 Vaccine Explained (Biontech)

MedCram - Medical Lectures Explained CLEARLY/YouTube

0:50

Treatment Options for COVID-19

U.S. Food and Drug Administration/YouTube

3:21

COVID 19 TREATMENT

Diseases Simplified/YouTube

3:46

Scripps Doctor Discusses Newly Approved Flu Treatment - KUSI

Scripps Health/YouTube

2:36

H1N1 and Seasonal Flu Treatment

Albert Einstein College of Medicine/YouTube

1:08

New flu treatment gets FDA approval

CBS News/YouTube

Vaccine

Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine

Image by U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Melody Bordeaux

Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine

Airman 1st Class Kimber Bernau, 59th Medical Wing Family Emergency Clinic medical technician, administers the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine shot to Tech Sgt. Jason Bailey, Dec. 14, 2020, at Wilford Hall Ambulatory Surgical Center, Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas. The Department of Defense is implementing a standardized and coordinated strategy for prioritizing, distributing, and administering the COVID-19 vaccine through a phased approach to all Active Duty, Reserve, National Guard, and all mission-essential DoD civilian employees and other personnel. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Melody Bordeaux)

Image by U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Melody Bordeaux

Flu vs COVID-19: Vaccine

Similarities:

Vaccines for COVID-19 and flu are approved and/or authorized for emergency use (EUA) by FDA.

Differences:

Flu

There are multiple FDA-licensed influenza vaccines produced annually to protect against the 4 flu viruses that scientists expect will circulate each year.

COVID-19

Three COVID-19 vaccines are authorized or approved for use in the United States to help prevent COVID-19. Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna (COVID-19 mRNA vaccines) are preferred. You may get Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen COVID-19 vaccine in some situations. Other vaccines to prevent COVID-19 are under development.

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Additional Materials (43)

How mRNA COVID-19 Vaccines Work

PDF infographic explaining how mRNA COVID-19 vaccines work.

Document by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

How Viral Vector COVID-19 Vaccines Work

PDF infographic explaining how viral vector COVID-19 vaccines work.

Document by CDC

Flu Vaccine for Children & Flu Shot Side Effects

Video by Cleveland Clinic/YouTube

Should You Get The Flu Vaccine?

Video by Super Scienced/YouTube

The Flu Vaccine is Effective

Video by Healthcare Triage/YouTube

Misconceptions about Flu and the Flu Vaccine

Video by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)/YouTube

Flu Vaccine: Why It's Important in 2020/2021 | UC San Diego Health

Video by UC San Diego Health/YouTube

Flu vaccine efficacy | Infectious diseases | Health & Medicine | Khan Academy

Video by khanacademymedicine/YouTube

Flu Vaccine When Pregnant | FAQ | Baby Talk

Video by BabyTalkShow/YouTube

Flu Vaccine Information for Pregnant Women and Children

Video by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)/YouTube

Who Needs a Flu Vaccine 30-Seconds

Video by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)/YouTube

The Flu Vaccine 101

Video by Science Filmmaking Tips/YouTube

2 Types of Flu Vaccine

Video by khanacademymedicine/YouTube

Answers to Common Questions about Flu Vaccine Safety

Video by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)/YouTube

Flu Vaccine: Myths and Facts | UCLA Health

Video by UCLA Health/YouTube

Answers to Common Questions about the Flu Vaccine

Video by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)/YouTube

Flu Vaccine Side Effects

Video by Cleveland Clinic/YouTube

Mayo Clinic Minute: Vaccine researcher’s advice about the flu

Video by Mayo Clinic/YouTube

HIV and flu -- the vaccine strategy - Seth Berkley

Video by TED-Ed/YouTube

5 common flu vaccine excuses | Infectious diseases | Health & Medicine | Khan Academy

Video by khanacademymedicine/YouTube

Flu vaccine risks and benefits | Infectious diseases | Health & Medicine | Khan Academy

Video by khanacademymedicine/YouTube

How can I prevent the spread of the flu?

Video by U.S. Department of Health and Human Services/YouTube

Dr. Kevin Ault Describes How He Recommends Flu Vaccine to Pregnant Patients

Video by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)/YouTube

Parents rate flu vaccine less important, effective, safe than other vaccines

Video by Michigan Medicine/YouTube

Everyone needs a flu vaccine!

Video by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)/YouTube

Making flu vaccine each year | Infectious diseases | Health & Medicine | Khan Academy

Video by khanacademymedicine/YouTube

COVID-19 | Five Things to Know About the COVID-19 Vaccine Timeline

Video by U.S. Department of Health and Human Services/YouTube

COVID-19: What are the possible side effects of the COVID-19 vaccine?

Video by ChristianaCare/YouTube

Coronavirus Update 117: Moderna vs. Pfizer COVID 19 Vaccine (mRNA vaccines)

Video by MedCram - Medical Lectures Explained CLEARLY/YouTube

Covid vaccine does NOT change your DNA, but Viruses could 🦠

Video by Doctorpedia/YouTube

COVID-19 Vaccine 101: Will a Vaccine Make Me Sick?

Video by Vanderbilt Health/YouTube

Is the Covid-19 Vaccine Safe for Children?

Video by Doctorpedia/YouTube

COVID-19 Vaccine Safety: What You Need to Know (Updated)

Video by Denver Health/YouTube

Should I Get the COVID-19 Vaccine if I Have Already Had COVID-19?

Video by Duke Health/YouTube

How To Figure Out Which Covid Vaccine Is Right For You?

Video by DoctorOz/YouTube

Pregnant And Nursing Women Await More Guidance On Covid Vaccine | NBC Nightly News

Video by NBC News/YouTube

Your COVID Vaccine Questions Answered

Video by JAMA Network/YouTube

COVID-19 Vaccine in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Video by Mama Doctor Jones/YouTube

6 COVID-19 Vaccine Myths Explained

Video by Cleveland Clinic/YouTube

Pediatricians Answer Parents' Questions on the Covid Vaccine for Children

Video by Doctorpedia/YouTube

Is the COVID-19 vaccine safe?

Video by St. Louis Children's Hospital/YouTube

Pregnant, breastfeeding women met with mixed messages about COVID-19 vaccines

Video by CBC News: The National/YouTube

Covid-19: what will it take to vaccinate the world? | The Economist

Video by The Economist/YouTube

How mRNA COVID-19 Vaccines Work

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

How Viral Vector COVID-19 Vaccines Work

CDC

1:18

Flu Vaccine for Children & Flu Shot Side Effects

Cleveland Clinic/YouTube

3:41

Should You Get The Flu Vaccine?

Super Scienced/YouTube

4:10

The Flu Vaccine is Effective

Healthcare Triage/YouTube

10:27

Misconceptions about Flu and the Flu Vaccine

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)/YouTube

2:12

Flu Vaccine: Why It's Important in 2020/2021 | UC San Diego Health

UC San Diego Health/YouTube

9:47

Flu vaccine efficacy | Infectious diseases | Health & Medicine | Khan Academy

khanacademymedicine/YouTube

0:59

Flu Vaccine When Pregnant | FAQ | Baby Talk

BabyTalkShow/YouTube

6:26

Flu Vaccine Information for Pregnant Women and Children

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)/YouTube

0:31

Who Needs a Flu Vaccine 30-Seconds

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)/YouTube

3:11

The Flu Vaccine 101

Science Filmmaking Tips/YouTube

7:49

2 Types of Flu Vaccine

khanacademymedicine/YouTube

8:55

Answers to Common Questions about Flu Vaccine Safety

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)/YouTube

5:11

Flu Vaccine: Myths and Facts | UCLA Health

UCLA Health/YouTube

5:44

Answers to Common Questions about the Flu Vaccine

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)/YouTube

1:07

Flu Vaccine Side Effects

Cleveland Clinic/YouTube

1:01

Mayo Clinic Minute: Vaccine researcher’s advice about the flu

Mayo Clinic/YouTube

21:06

HIV and flu -- the vaccine strategy - Seth Berkley

TED-Ed/YouTube

7:58

5 common flu vaccine excuses | Infectious diseases | Health & Medicine | Khan Academy

khanacademymedicine/YouTube

12:56

Flu vaccine risks and benefits | Infectious diseases | Health & Medicine | Khan Academy

khanacademymedicine/YouTube

0:29

How can I prevent the spread of the flu?

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services/YouTube

0:44

Dr. Kevin Ault Describes How He Recommends Flu Vaccine to Pregnant Patients

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)/YouTube

0:46

Parents rate flu vaccine less important, effective, safe than other vaccines

Michigan Medicine/YouTube

0:31

Everyone needs a flu vaccine!

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)/YouTube

9:17

Making flu vaccine each year | Infectious diseases | Health & Medicine | Khan Academy

khanacademymedicine/YouTube

1:38

COVID-19 | Five Things to Know About the COVID-19 Vaccine Timeline

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services/YouTube

1:18

COVID-19: What are the possible side effects of the COVID-19 vaccine?

ChristianaCare/YouTube

14:41

Coronavirus Update 117: Moderna vs. Pfizer COVID 19 Vaccine (mRNA vaccines)

MedCram - Medical Lectures Explained CLEARLY/YouTube

0:40

Covid vaccine does NOT change your DNA, but Viruses could 🦠

Doctorpedia/YouTube

0:52

COVID-19 Vaccine 101: Will a Vaccine Make Me Sick?

Vanderbilt Health/YouTube

1:01

Is the Covid-19 Vaccine Safe for Children?

Doctorpedia/YouTube

5:49

COVID-19 Vaccine Safety: What You Need to Know (Updated)

Denver Health/YouTube

1:54

Should I Get the COVID-19 Vaccine if I Have Already Had COVID-19?

Duke Health/YouTube

16:05

How To Figure Out Which Covid Vaccine Is Right For You?

DoctorOz/YouTube

1:52

Pregnant And Nursing Women Await More Guidance On Covid Vaccine | NBC Nightly News

NBC News/YouTube

7:52

Your COVID Vaccine Questions Answered

JAMA Network/YouTube

9:41

COVID-19 Vaccine in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Mama Doctor Jones/YouTube

3:46

6 COVID-19 Vaccine Myths Explained

Cleveland Clinic/YouTube

30:11

Pediatricians Answer Parents' Questions on the Covid Vaccine for Children

Doctorpedia/YouTube

0:58

Is the COVID-19 vaccine safe?

St. Louis Children's Hospital/YouTube

2:00

Pregnant, breastfeeding women met with mixed messages about COVID-19 vaccines

CBC News: The National/YouTube

9:51

Covid-19: what will it take to vaccinate the world? | The Economist

The Economist/YouTube

Influenza Vaccine, Inactivated or Recombinant

Influenza Vaccine, Inactivated or Recombinant

Also called: Afluria Quadrivalent, Fluarix Quadrivalent, FluLaval Quadrivalent, Flucelvax Quadrivalent, Fluzone Quadrivalent, FluMist Quadrivalent, Fluzone High-Dose Quadrivalent

Flu vaccines cause antibodies to develop in the body about two weeks after vaccination. These antibodies provide protection against infection with the viruses that are in the vaccine. CDC recommends everyone 6 months of age and older get vaccinated every flu season.

Influenza Vaccine, Inactivated or Recombinant

Also called: Afluria Quadrivalent, Fluarix Quadrivalent, FluLaval Quadrivalent, Flucelvax Quadrivalent, Fluzone Quadrivalent, FluMist Quadrivalent, Fluzone High-Dose Quadrivalent

Flu vaccines cause antibodies to develop in the body about two weeks after vaccination. These antibodies provide protection against infection with the viruses that are in the vaccine. CDC recommends everyone 6 months of age and older get vaccinated every flu season.

Influenza vaccine can prevent influenza (flu).
Flu is a contagious disease that spreads around the United States every year, usually between October and May. Anyone can get the flu, but it is more dangerous for some people. Infants and young children, people 65 years and older, pregnant people, and people with certain health conditions or a weakened immune system are at greatest risk of flu complications.
Pneumonia, bronchitis, sinus infections, and ear infections are examples of flu-related complications. If you have a medical condition, such as heart disease, cancer, or diabetes, flu can make it worse.
Flu can cause fever and chills, sore throat, muscle aches, fatigue, cough, headache, and runny or stuffy nose. Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults.
In an average year, thousands of people in the United States die from flu, and many more are hospitalized. Flu vaccine prevents millions of illnesses and flu-related visits to the doctor each year.
Tell your vaccination provider if the person getting the vaccine:
- Has had an allergic reaction after a previous dose of influenza vaccine, or has any severe, life-threatening allergies
- Has ever had Guillain-Barré Syndrome (also called “GBS”)
In some cases, your health care provider may decide to postpone influenza vaccination until a future visit.
Influenza vaccine can be administered at any time during pregnancy. People who are or will be pregnant during influenza season should receive inactivated influenza vaccine.
People with minor illnesses, such as a cold, may be vaccinated. People who are moderately or severely ill should usually wait until they recover before getting influenza vaccine.
Your health care provider can give you more information.
- Soreness, redness, and swelling where the shot is given, fever, muscle aches, and headache can happen after influenza vaccination.
- There may be a very small increased risk of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) after inactivated influenza vaccine (the flu shot).
Young children who get the flu shot along with pneumococcal vaccine (PCV13) and/or DTaP vaccine at the same time might be slightly more likely to have a seizure caused by fever. Tell your health care provider if a child who is getting flu vaccine has ever had a seizure.
People sometimes faint after medical procedures, including vaccination. Tell your provider if you feel dizzy or have vision changes or ringing in the ears.
As with any medicine, there is a very remote chance of a vaccine causing a severe allergic reaction, other serious injury, or death.
1. Inactivated Influenza VIS | CDC [accessed on Aug 06, 2019]
2. Vaccination: Who Should Do It, Who Should Not and Who Should Take Precautions | CDC [accessed on Oct 29, 2018]
3. People at High Risk of Developing Serious Flu–Related Complications | CDC [accessed on Oct 29, 2018]
4. Flu Information for Parents with Young Children | CDC [accessed on Oct 29, 2018]
5. Influenza Vaccine, Inactivated or Recombinant. MedlinePlus/AHFS® Drug Information. [accessed on Oct 29, 2018]

These FAQs provide a summary of the most important information about Influenza Vaccine, Inactivated or Recombinant. If you would like more information or have any questions, talk to your healthcare provider.

Additional Materials (50)

Influenza A virus

H1N1 Influenza Virus Particles : Colorized transmission electron micrograph showing H1N1 influenza virus particles. Surface proteins on the virus particles are shown in black.

Image by NIAID

Influenza A virus

H1N1 virus : This colorized transmission electron micrograph shows H1N1 influenza virus particles. National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID)

Image by (NIH) (NIAID)

Woman receiving immunization

This 2006 photograph depicted an adult female healthcare professional dressed in her scrubs, as she was receiving an intramuscular vaccination in her left shoulder muscle from a fellow nurse.

Image by CDC/ Judy Schmidt; Photo credit: James Gathany

Influenza Virus

This 3-dimensional (3D) image illustrates the very beginning stages of an influenza (flu) infection. Most experts think that influenza viruses spread mainly through small droplets containing influenza virus. These droplets are expelled into the air when people infected with the flu, cough, sneeze or talk. Once in the air, these small infectious droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby. This image shows what happens after these influenza viruses enter the human body. The viruses attach to cells within the nasal passages and throat (i.e., the respiratory tract). The influenza virus’s hemagglutinin (HA) surface proteins then bind to the sialic acid receptors on the surface of a human respiratory tract cell. The structure of the influenza virus’s HA surface proteins is designed to fit the sialic acid receptors of the human cell, like a key to a lock. Once the key enters the lock, the influenza virus is then able to enter and infect the cell. This marks the beginning of a flu infection.

Image by CDC/ Douglas E. Jordan; Photo credit: Illustrator: Dan Higgins

Influenza Virus

On a dark-blue background, this illustration provides a 3D graphical representation of a generic influenza virion's ultrastructure, and is not specific to a seasonal, avian or 2009 H1N1 virus. A portion of the virion's outer protein coat has been cut away, which reveals the virus' contents, and a key has been included, which identifies these components. See PHIL 11877 for an uncut view of the virion's exterior.

Image by CDC

Sneezing

This 2009 photograph captured a sneeze in progress, revealing the plume of salivary droplets as they are expelled in a large cone-shaped array from this man’s open mouth, thereby, dramatically illustrating the reason one needs to cover his/her mouth when coughing, or sneezing, in order to protect others from germ exposure.

Image by CDC/ Brian Judd; Photo credit: James Gathany

Influenza virus

This negatively-stained transmission electron micrograph (TEM) revealed the presence of a number of influenza virus virions. This virus is a Orthomyxoviridae virus family member.

Image by CDC

Hong Kong flu

This negatively-stained transmission electron micrograph (TEM) revealed the presence of a number of Hong Kong flu virus virions, the H3N2 subtype of the influenza A virus. This virus is a Orthomyxoviridae virus family member, and was responsible for the flu pandemic of 1968-1969, which infected an estimated 50,000,000 people in the United States, killing 33,000. Note the proteinaceous coat, or capsid, surrounding each virion, and the hemagglutinin-neuraminidase spikes, which differ in terms of their molecular make-up from strain to strain.

Image by CDC

Influenza A virus

This negatively-stained transmission electron micrograph (TEM) revealed the presence of a number of Hong Kong flu virus virions, the H3N2 subtype of the influenza A virus. This virus is a Orthomyxoviridae virus family member, and was responsible for the flu pandemic of 1968-1969, which infected an estimated 50,000,000 people in the United States, killing 33,000. Note the proteinaceous coat, or capsid, surroundind each virion, and the hemagglutinin-neuraminidase spikes, which differ in terms of their molecular make-up from strain to strain.

Image by CDC

Influenza A Virus

This negatively-stained transmission electron micrograph (TEM) depicted a small grouping of a number of influenza A virions, which also revealed at this very high magnification, the neuraminidase and hemagglutinin "spikes" protruding from the virions' proteinaceous capsid coats. At its core, the genome consists of eight single-stranded segments of a negative-sense RNA ((-) ssRNA). Influenza A virions can be observed as being both spherical and filamentous in nature. Each strand is enclosed in, or "encapsidated" inside the viral nucleoprotein, thereby, forming what is known as the ribonucleoprotein (RNP) particle.

Image by CDC

Influenza Virus

This negative-stained transmission electron micrograph (TEM) depicts the ultrastructural details of an influenza virus particle, or "virion". A member of the taxonomic family Orthomyxoviridae, the influenza virus is a single-stranded RNA organism.

Image by CDC

H1N1 versus H5N1 pathology

Different sites and outcomes of H1N1 versus H5N1 influenza infections.

Image by TimVickers

Symptoms of Influenza

Image by Mikael Haggstrom

Cold or Flu

The flu and the common cold are both respiratory illnesses but they are caused by different viruses. Because these two types of illnesses have similar flu-like symptoms, it can be difficult to tell the difference between them based on symptoms alone. In general, the flu is worse than the common cold, and symptoms such as fever, body aches, extreme tiredness, and dry cough are more common and intense. Colds are usually milder than the flu. People with colds are more likely to have a runny or stuffy nose. Colds generally do not result in serious health problems, such as pneumonia, bacterial infections, or hospitalizations. Because colds and flu share many symptoms, it can be difficult (or even impossible) to tell the difference between them based on symptoms alone. Special tests that usually must be done within the first few days of illness can be carried out, when needed to tell if a person has the flu. In general, the flu is worse than the common cold, and symptoms such as fever, body aches, extreme tiredness, and dry cough are more common and intense. Colds are usually milder than the flu. People with colds are more likely to have a runny or stuffy nose. Colds generally do not result in serious health problems, such as pneumonia, bacterial infections, or hospitalizations. CDC

Image by niaid

Influenza Virus

Influenza (flu) virus proteins in the act of self-replication. Viral nucleoprotein (blue) encapsidates [encapsulates] the RNA genome (green). The influenza virus polymerase (orange) reads and copies the RNA genome. In the background is an image of influenza virus ribonucleoprotein complexes observed using cryo-electron microscopy.

Image by Carragher Wilson and Potter labs

WHO: Influenza, an Unpredictable Threat

Video by World Health Organization (WHO)/YouTube

5 common flu vaccine excuses | Infectious diseases | Health & Medicine | Khan Academy

Video by khanacademymedicine/YouTube

How Flu Viruses Attack National Geographic

Video by maia86magnoly/YouTube

Flu Vaccine for Children & Flu Shot Side Effects

Video by Cleveland Clinic/YouTube

The Flu Vaccine is Effective

Video by Healthcare Triage/YouTube

Influenza animation - flu virus mechanism

Video by David Hager/YouTube

What is influenza?

Video by World Health Organization (WHO)/YouTube

Flu Attack! How A Virus Invades Your Body | Krulwich Wonders | NPR

Video by NPR/YouTube

Influenza: Get the (Antigenic) Drift

Video by NIAID/YouTube

How The Flu Shot Works (And Why You Should Get It)

Video by Seeker/YouTube

The Flu Vaccine 101

Video by Science Filmmaking Tips/YouTube

You Should Get a Flu Shot

Video by Healthcare Triage/YouTube

Why does being pregnant put me at a higher risk for flu?

Video by U.S. Department of Health and Human Services/YouTube

Preventing Flu During Pregnancy Could Reduce Autism Risk - Mayo Clinic

Video by Mayo Clinic/YouTube

Three types of flu | Infectious diseases | Health & Medicine | Khan Academy

Video by khanacademymedicine/YouTube

What is the flu? | Infectious diseases | Health & Medicine | Khan Academy

Video by khanacademymedicine/YouTube

When flu viruses attack! | Infectious diseases | Health & Medicine | Khan Academy

Video by khanacademymedicine/YouTube

What is Influenza? - Pig Flu - Bird Flu - Human Flu?

Video by Super Scienced/YouTube

Cold vs. Flu: What's The Difference?

Video by Seeker/YouTube

SwineFlu Influenza H1N1 Mechanism of Action MOA Animation

Video by Scientific Animations/YouTube

Avian Influenza

This photograph depicts a microbiologist in the Influenza Branch at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, while she was conducting an experiment inside a biological safety cabinet (BSC) within the Biosafety Level 3-enhanced laboratory. The airflow within the BSC helps prevent any airborne virus from escaping the confines of the cabinet, and as part of her personal protective equipment, she was wearing a powered air purifying respirator (PAPR), which was filtering the air that she was breathing.

Image by CDC

Swine Influenza

Main symptoms of swine influenza

Image by LadyofHats

Avian Influenza

Description: This transmission electron micrograph (TEM), taken at a magnification of 150,000x, revealed the ultrastructural details of an avian influenza A (H5N1) virion, a type of bird flu virus which is a subtype of avian influenza A. At this magnification, one may note the stippled appearance of the roughened surface of the proteinaceous coat encasing the virion.

Image by Cynthia Goldsmith/ Jackie Katz

Swine Influenza

Illustration of antigenic shift _ Swine influenza symptoms on swine

Image by National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID)

Influenza virus attaches to host membrane (with labels)

Influenza A infects a host cell when hemagglutinin grips onto glycans on its surface. Neuraminidase, an enzyme that chews sugars, helps newly made virus particles detach so they can infect other cells. Related to 213. Featured in the March 2006, issue of Findings in "Viral Voyages."

Image by National Institute of General Medical Sciences

Woman receiving nasal flu vaccine

This 2009 image depicts a healthcare practitioner as he was administering the H1N1 live attenuated intranasal vaccine (LAIV) to an Indian female recipient. Using a small syringe, he was delivering the vaccine mist into the woman’s right nostril.

Image by CDC/ Dr. Bill Atkinson; Photo credit: James Gathany

Flu Vaccine: Myths and Facts | UCLA Health

Video by UCLA Health/YouTube

The flu vaccine: explained

Video by Osmosis/YouTube

Dr. Wendy Sue Swanson Explains the 2019/2020 Flu Vaccine Recommendations

Video by American Academy of Pediatrics/YouTube

Flu Virus Rotation

The flu (influenza) is large family of viruses that affects birds and mammals and tends to be seasonal, usually beginning in late fall and ending in early spring. Like the common cold (caused by a different family of viruses), respiratory flu infection is widespread, affecting tens of millions in the U.S. each year. Some flu tests detect the influenza virus, while other tests detect the presence of antibodies produced by the body's immune system. There are different types and strains of influenza (including those known as bird or swine flu). Influenza (the flu) is a viral respiratory infection that affects 30 to 50 million Americans and is usually seasonal, beginning in late fall and disappearing in early spring. It is a common respiratory illness that affects 30 to 50 million Americans, especially the very young, elderly, those who are pregnant, with compromised immune systems or pre-existing lung disease each season.

Image by TheVisualMD

Influenza Vaccine

In this 2017 photo, captured inside a clinical setting, a health care provider was placing a bandage on the injection site of a child, who had just received a seasonal influenza vaccine. Children younger than 5-years-old, and especially those younger than 2-years-old, are at high risk of developing serious flu-related complications. A flu vaccine offers the best defense against flu, and its potentially serious consequences, and can also reduce the spread of flu to others.

Image by CDC/ Robert Denty; Photo credit: Scott Housley

Influenza Vaccine

In this 2017 photo, captured inside a clinical setting, a health care provider was placing a bandage on the injection site of a child, who had just received a seasonal influenza vaccine. Children younger than 5-years-old, and especially those younger than 2-years-old, are at high risk of developing serious flu-related complications. A flu vaccine offers the best defense against flu, and its potentially serious consequences, and can also reduce the spread of flu to others.

Image by CDC/ Robert Denty; Photo credit: Scott Housley

Flu Shots 101

Video by CBS New York/YouTube

Temp Time

A service member conducts a temperature check during a flu vaccination event for Army family members and military retirees at Fort Bliss, Texas, Oct. 9, 2020. This year’s event included the temperature checks as well as social distancing and masks due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Image by Michelle Gordon

Now’s Still a Good Time to Get Your Flu Vaccine

Background image of a crowd of pedestrians walking with an image of calendar with the words "Today" and "Get Flu Vaccine" on it in the foreground.

Image by U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

Influenza A virus

NIAID

Influenza A virus

(NIH) (NIAID)

Woman receiving immunization

CDC/ Judy Schmidt; Photo credit: James Gathany

Influenza Virus

CDC/ Douglas E. Jordan; Photo credit: Illustrator: Dan Higgins

Influenza Virus

CDC

Sneezing

CDC/ Brian Judd; Photo credit: James Gathany

Influenza virus

CDC

Hong Kong flu

CDC

Influenza A virus

CDC

Influenza A Virus

CDC

Influenza Virus

CDC

H1N1 versus H5N1 pathology

TimVickers

Symptoms of Influenza

Mikael Haggstrom

Cold or Flu

niaid

Influenza Virus

Carragher Wilson and Potter labs

14:03

WHO: Influenza, an Unpredictable Threat

World Health Organization (WHO)/YouTube

7:58

5 common flu vaccine excuses | Infectious diseases | Health & Medicine | Khan Academy

khanacademymedicine/YouTube

3:48

How Flu Viruses Attack National Geographic

maia86magnoly/YouTube

1:18

Flu Vaccine for Children & Flu Shot Side Effects

Cleveland Clinic/YouTube

4:10

The Flu Vaccine is Effective

Healthcare Triage/YouTube

4:13

Influenza animation - flu virus mechanism

David Hager/YouTube

2:40

What is influenza?

World Health Organization (WHO)/YouTube

3:39

Flu Attack! How A Virus Invades Your Body | Krulwich Wonders | NPR

NPR/YouTube

2:53

Influenza: Get the (Antigenic) Drift

NIAID/YouTube

3:35

How The Flu Shot Works (And Why You Should Get It)

Seeker/YouTube

3:11

The Flu Vaccine 101

Science Filmmaking Tips/YouTube

6:48

You Should Get a Flu Shot

Healthcare Triage/YouTube

0:41

Why does being pregnant put me at a higher risk for flu?

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services/YouTube

1:44

Preventing Flu During Pregnancy Could Reduce Autism Risk - Mayo Clinic

Mayo Clinic/YouTube

8:16

Three types of flu | Infectious diseases | Health & Medicine | Khan Academy

khanacademymedicine/YouTube

12:47

What is the flu? | Infectious diseases | Health & Medicine | Khan Academy

khanacademymedicine/YouTube

7:12

When flu viruses attack! | Infectious diseases | Health & Medicine | Khan Academy

khanacademymedicine/YouTube

3:24

What is Influenza? - Pig Flu - Bird Flu - Human Flu?

Super Scienced/YouTube

4:53

Cold vs. Flu: What's The Difference?

Seeker/YouTube

2:15

SwineFlu Influenza H1N1 Mechanism of Action MOA Animation

Scientific Animations/YouTube

Avian Influenza

CDC

Swine Influenza

LadyofHats

Avian Influenza

Cynthia Goldsmith/ Jackie Katz

Swine Influenza

National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID)

Influenza virus attaches to host membrane (with labels)

National Institute of General Medical Sciences

Woman receiving nasal flu vaccine

CDC/ Dr. Bill Atkinson; Photo credit: James Gathany

5:11

Flu Vaccine: Myths and Facts | UCLA Health

UCLA Health/YouTube

4:38

The flu vaccine: explained

Osmosis/YouTube

1:15

Dr. Wendy Sue Swanson Explains the 2019/2020 Flu Vaccine Recommendations

American Academy of Pediatrics/YouTube

Flu Virus Rotation

TheVisualMD

Influenza Vaccine

CDC/ Robert Denty; Photo credit: Scott Housley

Influenza Vaccine

CDC/ Robert Denty; Photo credit: Scott Housley

2:58

Flu Shots 101

CBS New York/YouTube

Temp Time

Michelle Gordon

Now’s Still a Good Time to Get Your Flu Vaccine

U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

Influenza Vaccine, Live Intranasal

Influenza Vaccine, Live Intranasal

Also called: Live Attenuated Influenza Vaccine, LAIV, Nasal Spray Flu Vaccine, FluMist® Quadrivalent

The nasal spray vaccine is sprayed into the nose to help protect against influenza. It can be used in children, adolescents, and non-pregnant adults ages 2 through 49. It may not prevent influenza in everyone who gets vaccinated.

Influenza Vaccine, Live Intranasal

Also called: Live Attenuated Influenza Vaccine, LAIV, Nasal Spray Flu Vaccine, FluMist® Quadrivalent

The nasal spray vaccine is sprayed into the nose to help protect against influenza. It can be used in children, adolescents, and non-pregnant adults ages 2 through 49. It may not prevent influenza in everyone who gets vaccinated.

Influenza vaccine can prevent influenza (flu).
Flu is a contagious disease that spreads around the United States every year, usually between October and May. Anyone can get the flu, but it is more dangerous for some people. Infants and young children, people 65 years of age and older, pregnant women, and people with certain health conditions or a weakened immune system are at greatest risk of flu complications.
Pneumonia, bronchitis, sinus infections and ear infections are examples of flu-related complications. If you have a medical condition, such as heart disease, cancer or diabetes, flu can make it worse.
Flu can cause fever and chills, sore throat, muscle aches, fatigue, cough, headache, and runny or stuffy nose. Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults.
Each year thousands of people in the United States die from flu, and many more are hospitalized. Flu vaccine prevents millions of illnesses and flu-related visits to the doctor each year.
Tell your vaccine provider if the person getting the vaccine:
- Is younger than 2 years or older than 49 years of age.
- Is pregnant.
- Has had an allergic reaction after a previous dose of influenza vaccine, or has any severe, life-threatening allergies.
- Is a child or adolescent 2 through 17 years of age who is receiving aspirin or aspirin-containing products.
- Has a weakened immune system.
- Is a child 2 through 4 years old who has asthma or a history of wheezing in the past 12 months.
- Has taken influenza antiviral medication in the previous 48 hours.
- Cares for severely immunocompromised persons who require a protected environment.
- Is 5 years or older and has asthma.
- Has other underlying medical conditions that can put people at higher risk of serious flu complications (such as lung disease, heart disease, kidney disease, kidney or liver disorders, neurologic or neuromuscular or metabolic disorders).
- Has had Guillain-Barré Syndrome within 6 weeks after a previous dose of influenza vaccine.
In some cases, your health care provider may decide to postpone influenza vaccination to a future visit.
For some patients, a different type of influenza vaccine (inactivated or recombinant influenza vaccine) might be more appropriate than live, attenuated influenza vaccine.
People with minor illnesses, such as a cold, may be vaccinated. People who are moderately or severely ill should usually wait until they recover before getting influenza vaccine.
Your health care provider can give you more information.
- Runny nose or nasal congestion, wheezing and headache can happen after LAIV.
- Vomiting, muscle aches, fever, sore throat and cough are other possible side effects.
If these problems occur, they usually begin soon after vaccination and are mild and short-lived.
As with any medicine, there is a very remote chance of a vaccine causing a severe allergic reaction, other serious injury, or death.
1. Live, Intranasal Influenza VIS | CDC [accessed on Sep 27, 2019]
2. LABEL: FLUMIST QUADRIVALENT- influenza vaccine live intranasal spray [accessed on Nov 25, 2018]
3. Influenza Vaccine, Live Intranasal. MedlinePlus/AHFS® Drug Information. [accessed on Oct 29, 2018]

These FAQs provide a summary of the most important information about Influenza Vaccine, Live Intranasal. If you would like more information or have any questions, talk to your healthcare provider.

Additional Materials (22)

FluMist Quadrivalent (2014-2015 flu season)

This image from 2014, depicted the packaging used to contain the MedImmune, Influenza Vaccine Live, Intranasal FluMist® Quadrivalent, for the 2014-2015 flu season. FluMist® is a live attenuated influenza vaccine (LAIV), indicated for active immunization for the prevention of influenza disease, caused by two influenza-A subtype viruses, and two influenza-B type viruses contained in the vaccine, or four influenza virus strains, hence the term, quadrivalent. FluMist® is administered as a 0.2ml intranasal spray, that is introduced into the nose, 0.1ml into each nostril.

Image by CDC/ Heather Richmond, MedImmune; Photo credit: Kaye evens-lutterodt/PR Neswire

Woman receiving nasal flu vaccine

This 2009 image depicts a healthcare practitioner as he was administering the H1N1 live attenuated intranasal vaccine (LAIV) to an Indian female recipient. Using a small syringe, he was delivering the vaccine mist into the woman’s right nostril.

Image by CDC/ Dr. Bill Atkinson; Photo credit: James Gathany

Vaccine Information Statement (VIS)

Vaccine Information Statements (VISs) are information sheets produced by the CDC that explain both the benefits and risks of a vaccine to vaccine recipients.

Document by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Woman receiving nasal vaccine (FluMist)

Created in 2011, this image depicts a qualified nurse in a clinical setting, who was in the process of administering a dosage of FluMist® live attenuated intranasal vaccine (LAIV) into this patient’s nasal cavity, by way of the patient’s right nostril. Note that the nurse’s hands were gloved, thereby, avoiding the possibility of cross-contamination.

Image by CDC/ Douglas Jordan, M.D.

Man receiving nasal vaccine (FluMist)

Senior Chief Navy Counselor David Paradise, assigned to Commander Naval Recruiting Command, receives his annual Influenza vaccine in the form of a nasal mist. The painless vaccine, called FLUMIST, is sprayed into a person’s nostrils rather than injected by needle.

Image by U.S. Navy photo by Photographer’s Mate 2nd Class Jayme Pastoric

FluMist (2011 - 2012 flu season)

Created in 2011, this image depicts a box containing ten prefilled FluMist® live attenuated intranasal vaccine (LAIV) sprayers, along-side of which was a single sprayer, which will be used to deliver the vaccine into the nasal cavity of the recipient. The vaccine contained within this box, and sprayer, was manufactured to be used during the 2011 - 2012 flu season, providing immunization against the 2011 – 2012 seasonal Influenza viruses.

Image by CDC/ Douglas Jordan, M.A.

Woman receiving nasal vaccine (FluMist)

Created in 2011, this image depicts a qualified nurse in a clinical setting, who was in the process of administering a dosage of FluMist® live attenuated intranasal vaccine (LAIV) into this patient’s nasal cavity, by way of the patient’s right nostril. Note that the nurse’s hands were gloved, thereby, avoiding the possibility of cross-contamination.

Image by CDC/ Douglas Jordan, M.A.

Flu vaccine risks and benefits | Infectious diseases | Health & Medicine | Khan Academy

Video by khanacademymedicine/YouTube

2 Types of Flu Vaccine

Video by khanacademymedicine/YouTube

Answers to Common Questions about the Flu Vaccine

Video by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)/YouTube

Flu Vaccine Information for Pregnant Women and Children

Video by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)/YouTube

Misconceptions about Flu and the Flu Vaccine

Video by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)/YouTube

Answers to Common Questions about Flu Vaccine Safety

Video by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)/YouTube

The flu vaccine: explained

Video by Osmosis/YouTube

Dr. Wendy Sue Swanson Explains the 2019/2020 Flu Vaccine Recommendations

Video by American Academy of Pediatrics/YouTube

Woman receiving nasal flu vaccine

This 2009 image depicts a healthcare practitioner as he was administering the H1N1 live attenuated intranasal vaccine (LAIV) to an Indian female recipient. Using a small syringe, he was delivering the vaccine mist into the woman’s right nostril.

Image by CDC/ Dr. Bill Atkinson; Photo credit: James Gathany

Man receiving nasal flu vaccine

This 2009 image depicts a healthcare practitioner as she was administering the H1N1 live attenuated intranasal vaccine (LAIV) to an African-American man. Using a small syringe, she was delivering the vaccine mist into the man’s left nostril.

Image by CDC/ Dr. Bill Atkinson; Photo credit: James Gathany

Man receiving nasal flu vaccine

This 2009 image depicts a healthcare practitioner as she was administering the H1N1 live attenuated intranasal vaccine (LAIV) to a Caucasian male recipient. Using a small syringe, she was delivering the vaccine mist into the man’s left nostril.

Image by CDC/ Dr. Bill Atkinson; Photo credit: James Gathany

Woman receiving nasal flu vaccine

This 2009 image depicts a healthcare practitioner as she was administering the H1N1 live attenuated intranasal vaccine (LAIV) to an Asian woman. Using a small syringe, she was delivering the vaccine mist into the woman’s left nostril.

Image by CDC/ Dr. Bill Atkinson; Photo credit: James Gathany

Man receiving nasal flu vaccine

This 2009 image depicts a healthcare practitioner as she was administering the H1N1 live attenuated intranasal vaccine (LAIV) to a Caucasian male recipient. Using a small syringe, she was delivering the vaccine mist into the man’s left nostril.

Image by CDC/ Dr. Bill Atkinson; Photo credit: James Gathany

Vaccination

In this 2020 photograph, captured inside a clinical setting, a health care provider administers a Live Attenuated Influenza Vaccine [LAIV] (Nasal Spray Vaccine). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends everyone, 6-months of age and older, get a flu vaccine every season. There are many vaccine options to choose from, but the most important thing, is for all people 6-months and older to get an influenza vaccine every year. If you have questions about which vaccine is best for you, talk to your doctor, or other health care professional.

Image by CDC/ Robert Denty; Photo credit: Lauren Bishop

Flu Nasal Spray Vaccine

In this 2022 photograph, captured inside a clinical setting, a health care provider administers a Live Attenuated Influenza Vaccine [LAIV] (Nasal Spray Vaccine). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends everyone 6-months of age and older get a flu vaccine every season. There are many vaccine options to choose from, but the most important thing is for all people 6-months and older to get an influenza vaccine every year. If you have questions about which vaccine is best for you, talk to your doctor or other health care provider.

Image by CDC/ Robin Spratling; Photo credit: Brandon Clifton

FluMist Quadrivalent (2014-2015 flu season)

CDC/ Heather Richmond, MedImmune; Photo credit: Kaye evens-lutterodt/PR Neswire

Woman receiving nasal flu vaccine

CDC/ Dr. Bill Atkinson; Photo credit: James Gathany

Vaccine Information Statement (VIS)

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Woman receiving nasal vaccine (FluMist)

CDC/ Douglas Jordan, M.D.

Man receiving nasal vaccine (FluMist)

U.S. Navy photo by Photographer’s Mate 2nd Class Jayme Pastoric

FluMist (2011 - 2012 flu season)

CDC/ Douglas Jordan, M.A.

Woman receiving nasal vaccine (FluMist)

CDC/ Douglas Jordan, M.A.

12:56

Flu vaccine risks and benefits | Infectious diseases | Health & Medicine | Khan Academy

khanacademymedicine/YouTube

7:49

2 Types of Flu Vaccine

khanacademymedicine/YouTube

5:44

Answers to Common Questions about the Flu Vaccine

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)/YouTube

6:26

Flu Vaccine Information for Pregnant Women and Children

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)/YouTube

10:27

Misconceptions about Flu and the Flu Vaccine

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)/YouTube

8:55

Answers to Common Questions about Flu Vaccine Safety

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)/YouTube

4:38

The flu vaccine: explained

Osmosis/YouTube

1:15

Dr. Wendy Sue Swanson Explains the 2019/2020 Flu Vaccine Recommendations

American Academy of Pediatrics/YouTube

Woman receiving nasal flu vaccine

CDC/ Dr. Bill Atkinson; Photo credit: James Gathany

Man receiving nasal flu vaccine

CDC/ Dr. Bill Atkinson; Photo credit: James Gathany

Man receiving nasal flu vaccine

CDC/ Dr. Bill Atkinson; Photo credit: James Gathany

Woman receiving nasal flu vaccine

CDC/ Dr. Bill Atkinson; Photo credit: James Gathany

Man receiving nasal flu vaccine

CDC/ Dr. Bill Atkinson; Photo credit: James Gathany

Vaccination

CDC/ Robert Denty; Photo credit: Lauren Bishop

Flu Nasal Spray Vaccine

CDC/ Robin Spratling; Photo credit: Brandon Clifton

COVID-19 Vaccine, Viral Vector (Janssen)

COVID-19 Vaccine, Viral Vector (Janssen)

Also called: J&J/Janssen COVID‑19 Vaccine

J&J/Janssen COVID-19 vaccine is a viral vector-based vaccine used for the prevention of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in individuals 18 years of age and older. This COVID-19 vaccine has expired and is no longer available for use in the United States as of May 6, 2023.

COVID-19 Vaccine, Viral Vector (Janssen)

Also called: J&J/Janssen COVID‑19 Vaccine

J&J/Janssen COVID-19 vaccine is a viral vector-based vaccine used for the prevention of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in individuals 18 years of age and older. This COVID-19 vaccine has expired and is no longer available for use in the United States as of May 6, 2023.

The J&J/Janssen COVID-19 Vaccine is an unapproved vaccine that may prevent COVID-19. J&J/Janssen COVID-19 vaccine has expired and is no longer available for use in the United States as of May 6, 2023.
Viral vector vaccines use a harmless, modified version of a different virus (a vector virus), and not the virus that causes COVID-19. The vector virus delivers important instructions to our cells on how to recognize and fight the virus that causes COVID-19.

The J&J/Janssen COVID-19 vaccine contains only the following ingredients:

Type	Ingredient	Purpose
A harmless version of a virus unrelated to the COVID-19 virus	Recombinant, replication-incompetent Ad26 vector, encoding a stabilized variant of the SARS-CoV-2 Spike (S) protein	Provides instructions the body uses to build a harmless piece of a protein from the virus that causes COVID-19. This protein causes an immune response that helps protect the body from getting sick with COVID-19 in the future.
Sugars, salts, acid, and acid stabilizer	Polysorbate-80 2-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin Trisodium citrate dihydrate Sodium chloride (basic table salt) Citric acid monohydrate (closely related to lemon juice) Ethanol (a type of alcohol)	Work together to help keep the vaccine molecules stable while the vaccine is manufactured, shipped, and stored until it is ready to be given to a vaccine recipient.

Tell the vaccination provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you:
- have any allergies,
- have a fever,
- have a bleeding disorder or are on a blood thinner,
- are immunocompromised or are on a medicine that affects your immune system,
- are pregnant or plan to become pregnant,
- are breastfeeding,
- have received another COVID-19 vaccine
Side effects that have been reported with the Janssen COVID-19 Vaccine include:
- Injection site reactions: pain, redness of the skin and swelling.
- General side effects: headache, feeling very tired, muscle aches, nausea, and fever.
There is a remote chance that the Janssen COVID-19 Vaccine could cause a severe allergic reaction. A severe allergic reaction would usually occur within a few minutes to one hour after getting a dose of the Janssen COVID-19 Vaccine. For this reason, your vaccination provider may ask you to stay at the place where you received your vaccine for monitoring after vaccination.
Signs of a severe allergic reaction can include:
- Difficulty breathing,
- Swelling of your face and throat,
- A fast heartbeat,
- A bad rash all over your body,
- Dizziness and weakness.
These may not be all the possible side effects of the Janssen COVID-19 Vaccine. Serious and unexpected effects may occur. The Janssen COVID-19 Vaccine is still being studied in clinical trials.
1. Overview of COVID-19 Vaccines | CDC. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Feb 11, 2020 [accessed on Oct 26, 2023]
2. Janssen COVID-19 Vaccine EUA Fact Sheet for Recipients and Caregivers [accessed on Feb 27, 2021]
3. FDA Issues Emergency Use Authorization for Third COVID-19 Vaccine [accessed on Feb 27, 2021]
4. CDC Information About Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen COVID-19 Vaccine [accessed on Mar 18, 2021]
5. COVID-19 Vaccine, Viral Vector (Janssen [Johnson and Johnson]). MedlinePlus/AHFS® Drug Information. [accessed on Jun 06, 2023]

These FAQs provide a summary of the most important information about COVID-19 Vaccine, Viral Vector (Janssen). If you would like more information or have any questions, talk to your healthcare provider.

Additional Materials (10)

Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 Vaccine: Effectiveness, Side Effects and Differences Between Vaccines

Video by UC Davis Health/YouTube

Induced stem cells from adult skin 02

These cells are induced stem cells made from human adult skin cells that were genetically reprogrammed to mimic embryonic stem cells. The induced stem cells were made potentially safer by removing the introduced genes and the viral vector used to ferry genes into the cells, a loop of DNA called a plasmid. The work was accomplished by geneticist Junying Yu in the laboratory of James Thomson, a University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Medicine and Public Health professor and the director of regenerative biology for the Morgridge Institute for Research.

Image by James Thomson, University of Wisconsin-Madison

How Vaccines Are Made and Manufactured | Viral Vector Platform

Video by Sartorius/YouTube

Coronavirus Vaccines - An Introduction

Video by JAMA Network/YouTube

Vaccines 101: How new vaccines are developed

Video by nature video/YouTube

There are four types of COVID-19 vaccines: here’s how they work

Video by Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance/YouTube

Behind The Scenes Of Johnson & Johnson’s Vaccine Trials | TODAY

Video by TODAY/YouTube

How To Figure Out Which Covid Vaccine Is Right For You?

Video by DoctorOz/YouTube

COVID-19 Vaccines: Interview with an Expert

Video by Amoeba Sisters/YouTube

How The One-Shot COVID Vaccine Changes Things

Video by SciShow/YouTube

2:45

Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 Vaccine: Effectiveness, Side Effects and Differences Between Vaccines

UC Davis Health/YouTube

Induced stem cells from adult skin 02

James Thomson, University of Wisconsin-Madison

2:43

How Vaccines Are Made and Manufactured | Viral Vector Platform

Sartorius/YouTube

9:54

Coronavirus Vaccines - An Introduction

JAMA Network/YouTube

7:06

Vaccines 101: How new vaccines are developed

nature video/YouTube

4:10

There are four types of COVID-19 vaccines: here’s how they work

Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance/YouTube

3:07

Behind The Scenes Of Johnson & Johnson’s Vaccine Trials | TODAY

TODAY/YouTube

16:05

How To Figure Out Which Covid Vaccine Is Right For You?

DoctorOz/YouTube

10:09

COVID-19 Vaccines: Interview with an Expert

Amoeba Sisters/YouTube

5:52

How The One-Shot COVID Vaccine Changes Things

SciShow/YouTube

COVID-19 Vaccine, MRNA (Moderna)

COVID-19 Vaccine, MRNA (Moderna)

Also called: Spikevax®, Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine, Moderna mRNA-1273 Vaccine

Moderna COVID-19 vaccine (Spikevax) is an mRNA vaccine approved for the prevention of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in adults and children 12 years of age and older. The vaccine is also available under EUA, for use in children 6 months through 11 years of age to prevent COVID-19.

COVID-19 Vaccine, MRNA (Moderna)

Also called: Spikevax®, Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine, Moderna mRNA-1273 Vaccine

Moderna COVID-19 vaccine (Spikevax) is an mRNA vaccine approved for the prevention of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in adults and children 12 years of age and older. The vaccine is also available under EUA, for use in children 6 months through 11 years of age to prevent COVID-19.

Spikevax is an mRNA vaccine for use in people 12 years of age and older to protect against COVID-19. mRNA vaccines use mRNA created in a laboratory to teach our cells how to make a protein—or even just a piece of a protein—that triggers an immune response inside our bodies. The mRNA from the vaccines is broken down within a few days after vaccination and discarded from the body.
The Moderna COVID-19 vaccine is a vaccine for use in individuals 6 months through 11 years of age to prevent COVID-19. The FDA has authorized the emergency use of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine under an EUA.
The 2023-2024 formula is made the same way as the Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine (Original monovalent) and Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine, Bivalent, but it encodes the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant lineage XBB.1.5 (Omicron XBB.1.5).
The vaccine may not protect all people who receive the vaccine. It does not contain SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. Therefore, it cannot give you COVID-19.
You should not get Spikevax if you had:
- a severe allergic reaction after a previous dose of Spikevax, Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine (Original monovalent), or Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine, Bivalent
- a severe allergic reaction to any ingredient of this vaccine (see What are the ingredients in Spikevax?)
Tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you:
- have any allergies
- had a severe allergic reaction after receiving a previous dose of any COVID-19 vaccine
- have had myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle) or pericarditis (inflammation of the lining outside the heart)
- have a fever
- have a bleeding disorder or are on a blood thinner
- are immunocompromised or are on a medicine that affects your immune system
- are pregnant or plan to become pregnant
- are breastfeeding
- have received any other COVID-19 vaccine
- have ever fainted in association with an injection
Severe allergic reactions have occurred in some people who have received Spikevax, Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine (Original monovalent), and Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine, Bivalent. There is a very small chance that Spikevax could cause a severe allergic reaction. A severe allergic reaction would usually occur within a few minutes to 1 hour after getting a dose of Spikevax. For this reason, your healthcare provider may ask you to stay for a short time at the place where you received your vaccine. Signs of a severe allergic reaction can include:
- Trouble breathing
- Swelling of your face and throat
- A fast heartbeat
- A rash all over your body
- Dizziness and weakness
Myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle) and pericarditis (inflammation of the lining outside the heart) have occurred in some people who have received mRNA COVID-19 vaccines, including Spikevax, Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine (Original monovalent), and Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine, Bivalent. Myocarditis and pericarditis following Moderna COVID-19 vaccines have occurred, most commonly in males 18 years through 24 years of age. In most of these individuals, symptoms began within a few days following vaccination. The chance of having this occur is very low. You should seek medical attention right away if you or your child has any of the following symptoms after receiving the vaccine, particularly during the 2 weeks after receiving a dose of the vaccine:
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Feelings of having a fast-beating, fluttering, or pounding heart
Side effects that have been reported in clinical trials with Spikevax, Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine (Original monovalent), and Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine, Bivalent include:
- Injection site reactions: pain, tenderness and swelling of the lymph nodes in the same arm of the injection, swelling (hardness), and redness
- General side effects: fatigue, headache, muscle pain, joint pain, chills, nausea and vomiting, fever, and rash
Other side effects that have been reported include:
- Severe allergic reactions
- Urticaria (itchy rash/hives)
- Myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle)
- Pericarditis (inflammation of the lining outside the heart)
- Fainting in association with injection of the vaccine
These may not be all of the possible side effects of Spikevax. Ask your healthcare provider about any side effects that concern you. You may report side effects to the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) at 1-800-822-7967 or HTTPS://VAERS.HHS.GOV.

Moderna COVID-19 vaccine for everyone ages 6 months and older contains only the following ingredients:

Type	Ingredient	Purpose
Messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA)	Nucleoside-modified mRNA encoding the viral spike (S) glycoprotein of SARS-CoV-2	Provides instructions the body uses to build a harmless piece of a protein from the virus that causes COVID-19. This protein causes an immune response that helps protect the body from getting sick with COVID-19 in the future.
Lipids (fats)	Polyethylene glycol (PEG) 2000 dimyristoyl glycerol (DMG) 1,2-distearoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine BotaniChol^® (non-animal origin cholesterol) SM-102: heptadecane-9-yl 8-((2-hydroxyethyl) (6-oxo-6-(undecyloxy) hexyl) amino) octanoate	Work together to help the mRNA enter cells.
Salt, sugar, acid stabilizers, and acid	Sodium acetate Sucrose (basic table sugar) Tromethamine Tromethamine hydrochloride Acetic acid (the main ingredient in white household vinegar)	Work together to help keep the vaccine in good condition (molecules remain stable) while the vaccine is manufactured, frozen, shipped, and stored until it is ready to be given to a vaccine recipient.

Spikevax does not contain preservatives.

1. DailyMed - SPIKEVAX- covid-19 vaccine, mrna injection, suspension [accessed on Oct 26, 2023]
2. Moderna COVID-19 Vaccines | FDA. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. [accessed on Oct 26, 2023]
3. COVID-19 Vaccine (Moderna). MedlinePlus/AHFS® Drug Information. [accessed on Feb 13, 2021]

These FAQs provide a summary of the most important information about COVID-19 Vaccine, mRNA (Moderna). If you would like more information or have any questions, talk to your healthcare provider.

Additional Materials (17)

Coronavirus Update 117: Moderna vs. Pfizer COVID 19 Vaccine (mRNA vaccines)

Video by MedCram - Medical Lectures Explained CLEARLY/YouTube

Moderna COVID-19 vaccine

Air Force Senior Airman Caleb McCain draws a dose of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine into a syringe at Tinker Air Force Base, Okla., Feb. 7, 2021. More than 250 airmen voluntarily received the first dose of the two-part Moderna COVID-19 vaccine series.

Image by Air Force Tech. Sgt. Lauren Kelly

What to expect from Moderna's COVID-19 vaccine

Video by CBS News/YouTube

mRNA-3704 and Methylmalonic Acidemia

Video by Moderna/YouTube

CDC to use v-safe text message tool to track COVID-19 vaccine side effects

Video by We Are Iowa Local 5 News/YouTube

The REAL Vaccine Timeline | Coronavirus

Video by AsapSCIENCE/YouTube

What is the new COVID variant? - Dr. Tom Talks

Video by BioDigital, Inc./YouTube

Covid-19 vaccine shows 'promising' immune response results

Video by CNN/YouTube

Coronavirus Vaccines - An Introduction

Video by JAMA Network/YouTube

Your COVID Vaccine Questions Answered

Video by JAMA Network/YouTube

Coronavirus Update 116: Pfizer COVID 19 Vaccine Explained (Biontech)

Video by MedCram - Medical Lectures Explained CLEARLY/YouTube

What's Up With That Russian Vaccine? | SciShow News

Video by SciShow/YouTube

COVID-19 Vaccine

Air Force Staff Sgt. Matthew Basa, 19th Medical Group aerospace medical technician, administers the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine at Little Rock Air Force Base, Ark., Jan 14, 2021. The Moderna COVID-19 vaccine is given in two doses and is 94.1% effective, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Image by Air Force Senior Airman Aaron Irvin

Moderna COVID-19 vaccine (2020)

Moderna COVID-19 vaccine (2020)

Image by Baltimore County Government

COVID-19 Vaccine

Army Capt. Alyssa Balzer, an officer in charge at Public Health Activity-Japan, receives a Moderna COVID-19 vaccine from Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Keating Beach, assigned to U.S. Naval Hospital Yokosuka Branch Health Clinic Sasebo onboard Commander, Fleet Activities Sasebo, Japan, Jan. 26, 2021. Administration of the vaccine is priority based and will occur in phases starting with health care and emergency service personnel (Phase 1a) and ending with healthy members of the base population (Phase 3).

Image by Phase 3

Moderna Vaccine

Doses of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine are ready to be administered to airmen of the 163d Attack Wing, California Air National Guard, at March Air Reserve Base, Calif., Jan. 9, 2021. Military members can receive the vaccine voluntarily, and the initial doses have been prioritized for airmen on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic response.

Image by Air Force Master Sgt. Julianne M. Showalter

Moderna Vial

A vial of Moderna COVID-19 vaccine is seen at Royal Air Force Lakenheath, England, Dec. 29, 2020, when the 48th Medical Group conducted its first inoculations of health care workers with the vaccine.

Image by Air Force Senior Airman Madeline Herzog

14:41

Coronavirus Update 117: Moderna vs. Pfizer COVID 19 Vaccine (mRNA vaccines)

MedCram - Medical Lectures Explained CLEARLY/YouTube

Moderna COVID-19 vaccine

Air Force Tech. Sgt. Lauren Kelly

10:01

What to expect from Moderna's COVID-19 vaccine

CBS News/YouTube

3:37

mRNA-3704 and Methylmalonic Acidemia

Moderna/YouTube

1:24

CDC to use v-safe text message tool to track COVID-19 vaccine side effects

We Are Iowa Local 5 News/YouTube

9:06

The REAL Vaccine Timeline | Coronavirus

AsapSCIENCE/YouTube

5:11

What is the new COVID variant? - Dr. Tom Talks

BioDigital, Inc./YouTube

8:49

Covid-19 vaccine shows 'promising' immune response results

CNN/YouTube

9:54

Coronavirus Vaccines - An Introduction

JAMA Network/YouTube

7:52

Your COVID Vaccine Questions Answered

JAMA Network/YouTube

22:32

Coronavirus Update 116: Pfizer COVID 19 Vaccine Explained (Biontech)

MedCram - Medical Lectures Explained CLEARLY/YouTube

7:40

What's Up With That Russian Vaccine? | SciShow News

SciShow/YouTube

COVID-19 Vaccine

Air Force Senior Airman Aaron Irvin

Moderna COVID-19 vaccine (2020)

Baltimore County Government

COVID-19 Vaccine

Phase 3

Moderna Vaccine

Air Force Master Sgt. Julianne M. Showalter

Moderna Vial

Air Force Senior Airman Madeline Herzog

COVID-19 Vaccine, MRNA (Pfizer-BioNTech)

COVID-19 Vaccine, MRNA (Pfizer-BioNTech)

Also called: Comirnaty®, Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine, BNT162b2 Vaccine

Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine (Comirnaty) is an mRNA vaccine approved for the prevention of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in adults and children 12 years of age and older. The vaccine is also available under EUA, for use in children 6 months through 11 years of age to prevent COVID-19.

COVID-19 Vaccine, MRNA (Pfizer-BioNTech)

Also called: Comirnaty®, Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine, BNT162b2 Vaccine

Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine (Comirnaty) is an mRNA vaccine approved for the prevention of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in adults and children 12 years of age and older. The vaccine is also available under EUA, for use in children 6 months through 11 years of age to prevent COVID-19.

Comirnaty is an mRNA vaccine for use in people 12 years of age and older to protect against COVID-19. mRNA vaccines use mRNA created in a laboratory to teach our cells how to make a protein—or even just a piece of a protein—that triggers an immune response inside our bodies. The mRNA from the vaccines is broken down within a few days after vaccination and discarded from the body.
The Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine is a vaccine for use in individuals 6 months through 11 years of age to prevent COVID-19. The FDA has authorized the emergency use of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine under an EUA.
The 2023-2024 formula is made the same way as Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine (Original monovalent) and Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine, Bivalent, but it encodes the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant lineage XBB.1.5 (Omicron XBB.1.5).
The vaccine may not protect all people who receive the vaccine. It does not contain SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. Therefore, it cannot give you COVID-19.
You should not get Comirnaty if you had:
- a severe allergic reaction after a previous dose of Comirnaty or any Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine
- a severe allergic reaction to any ingredient in these vaccines (see What are the ingredients in Comirnaty?).
Before getting Comirnaty, tell your vaccination provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you:
- have any allergies
- had a severe allergic reaction after receiving a previous dose of any COVID-19 vaccine
- have had myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle) or pericarditis (inflammation of the lining outside the heart)
- have a fever
- have a bleeding disorder or are on a blood thinner
- are immunocompromised or are on a medicine that affects your immune system
- are pregnant or plan to become pregnant
- are breastfeeding
- have received another COVID-19 vaccine
- have ever fainted in association with an injection
There is a remote chance that Comirnaty could cause a severe allergic reaction. A severe allergic reaction would usually occur within a few minutes to 1 hour after getting a dose. For this reason, your vaccination provider may ask you to stay at the place where you received your vaccine for monitoring after vaccination. Signs of a severe allergic reaction can include:
- Difficulty breathing
- Swelling of your face and throat
- A fast heartbeat
- A bad rash all over your body
- Dizziness and weakness
Myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle) and pericarditis (inflammation of the lining outside the heart) have occurred in some people who have received mRNA COVID-19 vaccines, including Comirnaty and Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccines. Myocarditis and pericarditis following Comirnaty have occurred most commonly in adolescent males 12 through 17 years of age. In most of these individuals, symptoms began within a few days following vaccination. The chance of having this occur is very low. You should seek medical attention right away if you or your child have any of the following symptoms after receiving the vaccine, particularly during the 2 weeks after receiving a dose of the vaccine:
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Feelings of having a fast-beating, fluttering, or pounding heart
Side effects that have been reported with Comirnaty or Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccines include:
- Severe allergic reactions
- Non-severe allergic reactions such as rash, itching, hives, or swelling of the face
- Myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle)
- Pericarditis (inflammation of the lining outside the heart)
- Injection site reactions: pain, swelling, redness, arm pain
- General side effects: tiredness, headache, muscle pain, chills, joint pain, fever, nausea, feeling unwell, swollen lymph nodes (lymphadenopathy), decreased appetite, diarrhea, vomiting, dizziness
- Fainting in association with injection of the vaccine
These may not be all the possible side effects of Comirnaty. Ask your healthcare provider about any side effects that concern you.
Report vaccine side effects to FDA/CDC Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS). The VAERS toll-free number is 1-800-822-7967 or report online to https://vaers.hhs.gov/reportevent.html.

Ingredients in Vaccine Formula for Children

The Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine for children ages 6 months–11 years contains only the following ingredients:

Type	Ingredient	Purpose
Messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA)	Nucleoside-modified mRNA encoding the viral spike (S) glycoprotein of SARS-CoV-2	Provides instructions the body uses to build a harmless piece of a protein from the virus that causes COVID-19. This protein causes an immune response that helps protect the body from getting sick with COVID-19 in the future.
Lipids (fats)	2[(polyethylene glycol (PEG))-2000]-N,N-ditetradecylacetamide 1,2-distearoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine Cholesterol ((4-hydroxybutyl)azanediyl)bis(hexane-6,1-diyl)bis(2-hexyldecanoate)	Work together to help the mRNA enter cells.
Sugar and acid stabilizers	Sucrose (table sugar) Tromethamine Tromethamine hydrochloride	Work together to help keep the vaccine molecules stable while the vaccine is manufactured, frozen, shipped, and stored until it is ready to be given to a vaccine recipient.

Ingredients in Vaccine Formula for Teens and Adults

Cominarty vaccine for teens and adults ages 12 years and older contains only the following ingredients:

Type	Ingredient	Purpose
Messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA)	Nucleoside-modified mRNA encoding the viral spike (S) glycoprotein of SARS-CoV-2	Provides instructions the body uses to build a harmless piece of a protein from the virus that causes COVID-19. This protein causes an immune response that helps protect the body from getting sick with COVID-19 in the future.
Lipids (fats)	2[(polyethylene glycol (PEG))-2000]-N,N-ditetradecylacetamide 1,2-distearoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine Cholesterol ((4-hydroxybutyl)azanediyl)bis(hexane-6,1-diyl)bis(2-hexyldecanoate)	Work together to help the mRNA enter cells.
Sugar and acid stabilizers	Sucrose (table sugar) Tromethamine Tromethamine hydrochloride	Work together to help keep the vaccine in good condition (molecules remain stable) while the vaccine is manufactured, frozen, shipped, and stored until it is ready to be given to a vaccine recipient.

Cominarty does not contain preservatives.

1. DailyMed - COMIRNATY- covid-19 vaccine, mrna injection, suspension [accessed on Oct 26, 2023]
2. DailyMed - PFIZER-BIONTECH COVID-19 VACCINE- covid-19 vaccine, mrna injection, suspension [accessed on Oct 26, 2023]
3. Overview of COVID-19 Vaccines | CDC. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Feb 11, 2020 [accessed on Oct 26, 2023]
4. COVID-19 Vaccine (Pfizer-BioNTech). MedlinePlus/AHFS® Drug Information. [accessed on Feb 15, 2021]

These FAQs provide a summary of the most important information about COVID-19 Vaccine, mRNA (Pfizer-BioNTech). If you would like more information or have any questions, talk to your healthcare provider.

Additional Materials (18)

Pfizer-BioNTech coronavirus vaccine: The refrigeration problem no one is talking about

Video by Global News/YouTube

The Vaccine to End the Pandemic?

Video by Real Science/YouTube

The Race To Develop A Coronavirus Vaccine

Video by CNBC/YouTube

COVID-19 coronavirus vaccine: everything you need to know

Video by Cambridge University/YouTube

Coronavirus Outbreak: When Will We Get a COVID-19 Vaccine?

Video by NBC New York/YouTube

Coronavirus Pandemic Update 54: COVID-19 Antibody vs. PCR Testing; When to Relax Social Distancing?

Video by MedCram - Medical Lectures Explained CLEARLY/YouTube

Coronavirus Vaccine: Drugmakers Test Ebola, HIV Medicines to Halt Virus

Video by Bloomberg Quicktake: Now/YouTube

Doctors testing coronavirus vaccine trial on healthy man

Video by CNN/YouTube

Development of the COVID-19 Vaccine

Video by Osmosis/YouTube

Will the COVID-19 vaccines be safe?

Video by Osmosis/YouTube

Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine

Army Spc. Angel Laureano holds a vial of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Md., Dec. 14, 2020.

Image by Lisa Ferdinando, DOD

Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine

Army Spc. Angel Laureano holds a vial of the COVID-19 vaccine at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Md., Dec. 14, 2020.

Image by Lisa Ferdinando, DOD

Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine

Robert Carpenter, 59th Medical Wing Immunizations Clinic licensed vocational nurse, prepares the San Antonio Military Health System’s first Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine, Dec. 14, 2020, at Wilford Hall Ambulatory Surgical Center, Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas. Vaccines fight disease by producing an immune response within the body. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Melody Bordeaux)

Image by U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Melody Bordeaux

Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine

Robert Carpenter, 59th Medical Wing Immunizations Clinic licensed vocational nurse, dilutes the San Antonio Military Health System’s first Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine with saline solution, Dec. 14, 2020, at Wilford Hall Ambulatory Surgical Center, Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas. The Department of Defense remains committed to protecting service members, civilian employees, and families while safeguarding national security capabilities and supporting the whole-of-nation response to the pandemic. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Melody Bordeaux)

Image by U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Melody Bordeaux

Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine

Airman 1st Class Kimber Bernau, 59th Medical Wing Family Emergency Clinic medical technician, administers the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine shot to Tech Sgt. Jason Bailey, Dec. 14, 2020, at Wilford Hall Ambulatory Surgical Center, Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas. The Department of Defense is implementing a standardized and coordinated strategy for prioritizing, distributing, and administering the COVID-19 vaccine through a phased approach to all Active Duty, Reserve, National Guard, and all mission-essential DoD civilian employees and other personnel. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Melody Bordeaux)

Image by U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Melody Bordeaux

Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine

Vials of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine are at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Md., Dec. 14, 2020, following the vaccine's emergency use authorization by the Food and Drug Administration.

Image by Lisa Ferdinando, DOD

COVID-19 Vaccine

Navy Seaman Gabriel Cabral, assigned to the Naval Medical Center San Diego, administers the first-round of Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccines to sailors and select Defense Department support staff at Naval Air Facility in EL Centro, Calif., March 4, 2021. The mission of NAF El Centro is to support the combat training and readiness of the warfighter.

Image by Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Drew Verbis

Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine

Navy Seaman Milan Torres prepares a dose of the COVID-19 vaccine to be administered to a patient at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Md., Dec. 14, 2020.

Image by Lisa Ferdinando, DOD

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Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine

Lisa Ferdinando, DOD

Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine

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Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine

U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Melody Bordeaux

Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine

U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Melody Bordeaux

Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine

U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Melody Bordeaux

Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine

Lisa Ferdinando, DOD

COVID-19 Vaccine

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Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine

Lisa Ferdinando, DOD

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COVID-19 vs Flu

COVID-19 and influenza (flu) are both contagious respiratory illnesses, but they are caused by different viruses. Learn the differences between COVID-19 and the flu.

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