Reading Part B25

B25. The statement below highlights that:

Memo to staff re: presence of latex in Fluad trivalent influenza vaccine

During the 2018 influenza season, natural rubber latex was present in the sheath covering the needle of trivalent influenza vaccine Fluad. Fluad is available for people aged 65 years and over through the National Immunisation Program (NIP). While reactions to latex are rare, anyone who has a severe allergy to latex should not receive Fluad. Patients aged 65 years and over can still be safely vaccinated with the alternative trivalent influenza vaccine, Fluzone High-Dose through the NIP. Please note there are no safety concerns regarding the Fluad vaccine itself. The sponsor of Fluad, Seqirus, commits to update the Product Information and Consumer Medicines Information for this vaccine accordingly.

Action for vaccination providers:

If you are vaccinating patients with Fluad, please be aware of this issue and advise patients accordingly. Reassure patients that reactions to latex are rare. Before administering Fluad, confirm with patients that they are not allergic to latex. Anyone who has a severe allergy to latex should not receive Fluad. Patients aged 65 years and over can still be safely vaccinated with the alternative trivalent influenza vaccine, Fluzone High Dose, available through the NIP. As with all vaccinations, be prepared to treat immediate allergic reactions, including potential anaphylaxis.