title: Intranasal influenza vaccine in a working population.
abstract: In the present study, we assessed the incidence of adverse events and influenza-like symptoms in a working population in Switzerland that was vaccinated against influenza. A total of 12,582 individuals of working age (<65 years old) were offered a free influenza vaccine of their choice (injectable or intranasal vaccine) in October and November 2000. Of these individuals, 1600 were vaccinated against influenza. Ninety-seven percent of the vaccine recipients chose the intranasal vaccine, and 3% chose the injectable influenza vaccine. The incidence of influenza-like symptoms and side effects was 13% and 36%, respectively. Individuals who chose the intranasal vaccine were more likely to report side effects (OR, 3.23; 95% CI, 1.29-8.08). Facial paralysis was observed in 11 patients and was the most severe adverse event associated with the intranasal influenza vaccine. As a result of these adverse events, the intranasal vaccine was removed from the market in the fall of 2001.
authors.affiliation: Division of Infectious Diseases, Basel University Hospital, Basel, Switzerland.
authors.forename: Pedram
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Sendi
authors.forename: Rebecca
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Locher
authors.forename: Bruno
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Bucheli
authors.forename: Manuel
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Battegay
mesh_terms: D000281:Administration, Intranasal; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D005158:Facial Paralysis / Q000209:etiology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007252:Influenza Vaccines / Q000009:adverse effects*; D007251:Influenza, Human / Q000517:prevention & control; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011153:Population; D014611:Vaccination / Q000009:adverse effects; D014937:Work
chemical_list: D007252:Influenza Vaccines