[Reactions to inactivated influenza vaccines (alorbat and begrivac s) (author's transl)]

Possible side effects to two commercial influenza vaccines (Alorbat and Begrivac S) were investigated in 893 adults (18-60 years). Both vaccines, administered by jet injections, were similarly tolerated. About 90% of vaccinated subjects had neither subjective nor objective reactions. Swelling or pain at the site of injection was reported by 11.5% of those vaccinated by Alorbat, 4.5% complained of not feeling well but only 1.1% had verifiable disorders. Local reactions occurred in 12.4% of those receiving Begrivac S, with 7.7% systemic reactions of which 1.1% were verifiable. Those re-vaccinated had a similar incidence of side reactions to those with primary vaccinations. Reactions which did occur were obviously due to the vaccination method. One person had urticaria and oedema, possibly due to reaction to foreign protein; this would suggest that the degree of purity of the vaccine should be checked by the manufacturers.