What are the types of seasonal flu vaccines?

There are two types of influenza vaccines that protect against seasonal flu. The "flu shot" is an inactivated vaccine (containing killed virus) that is given with a needle, usually in the arm. The flu shot is approved for use among people 6 months of age or older, including healthy people and those with chronic medical conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease). A different kind of vaccine, called the nasal-spray flu vaccine (sometimes referred to as LAIV for Live Attenuated Influenza Vaccine or FluMist®), was approved in 2003. The nasal-spray flu vaccine contains attenuated (weakened) live viruses, and is administered by nasal sprayer. It is approved for use only among healthy* people 2-49 years of age who are not pregnant.

Each of the two types of seasonal influenza vaccines contain three influenza viruses, which are chosen based on information about recently circulating seasonal viruses. Each seasonal influenza vaccine contains – one A (H3N2) virus, one A (H1N1) virus (not the 2009 H1N1 virus), and one B virus. Viruses for both vaccines are grown in eggs.

Last Reviewed: 10/15/2010

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