Influenza virus ("the flu") is a contagious disease caused by a virus that can spread from one person to another through the air or on surfaces. Flu symptoms include fever, chills, tiredness, aches, sore throat, cough, vomiting, and diarrhea. The flu can also cause sinus infections, ear infections, bronchitis, or serious complications such as pneumonia.

Influenza virus vaccine is for use in adults and children to prevent infection caused by influenza virus. This vaccine helps your body develop immunity to the disease, but will not treat an active infection you already have.

The injectable influenza virus vaccine (flu shot) is made from "killed viruses." This medication guide addresses only the injectable form of this vaccine.

Like any vaccine, influenza virus vaccine may not provide protection from disease in every person.

You may not receive this vaccine if you are allergic to eggs, or if you have ever had a severe allergic reaction to a flu vaccine.

Tell your vaccination provider if you have:

• fever;
• fainted after receiving an injection;
• a weak immune system (caused by disease or by using certain medicine); or
• a history of Guillain-Barre syndrome (within 6 weeks after receiving a flu vaccine).

Tell your vaccination provider if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Use Fluzone High-Dose 2011-2012 (Intramuscular) exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives, difficult breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Keep track of any and all side effects you have. If you receive an this vaccine in the future, you may need to tell the vaccination provider if the previous shot caused any side effects.

Influenza virus vaccine is made from "killed viruses" and will not cause you to become ill with the flu virus. You may have flu-like symptoms at any time during flu season that may be caused by other strains of influenza virus.

Call your doctor at once if you have:

• a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out; or
• nervous system problems--numbness, pain, tingling, weakness, burning or prickly feeling, vision or hearing problems, trouble breathing.

Common side effects may include:

• pain, redness, tenderness, swelling, bruising, or a hard lump where the shot was given;
• diarrhea, loss of appetite;
• muscle pain;
• headache, tiredness; or
• fussiness, crying, or drowsiness in a child.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report vaccine side effects to the US Department of Health and Human Services at 1-800-822-7967.

Follow your vaccination provider's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.