Flu Vaccine, Fluvax, in Bad Light After Reports of Adverse Side Effects in Children

Fluvax, the flu vaccine manufactured by CSL, has been banned for use in children below five years after reports of adverse reactions to the vaccine occurred in 151 children in WA in 2010.

Many children suffered fever and vomiting; 57 children had convulsions after vaccination with fluvax.

There were reports of severe reaction to this vaccine in parts of Europe and Canada as well.

Researchers are of the opinion that a chemical in the vaccine, deoxycholate, which is used to split the flu viruses, may have caused the adverse side effects. Incidentally, Fluvax happens to be the only flu vaccine which uses the chemical, deoxycholate.

It is best to avoid using this vaccine in children till we have conclusive evidence regarding its safety.



Source: Medindia