What is the route and dose for administering the IIV vaccine to a patient?

The recommended route for administering the Inactivated Influenza Vaccine (IIV) is intramuscular (IM), and the standard dosage for adults and children over the age of 3 is 0.5 mL. This administration route ensures that the vaccine is effectively absorbed into the bloodstream, providing a robust immune response against the influenza virus.

In addition to that, using the appropriate volume is crucial for efficacy; administering 0.5 mL delivers the correct antigen amount needed to elicit immunity without causing unnecessary side effects often associated with higher volumes.

The IM route is specifically chosen for its reliability in eliciting a proper immune response compared to other routes such as subcutaneous (SC) injection, which may not be routinely recommended for this vaccine. Understanding the proper dosage and route is essential for healthcare providers to ensure vaccinations are administered safely and effectively.