You know that there are two different types of flu, right? Sometimes the flu can be quite severe and can be very difficult on the body. Today, we're going to talk about a special treatment that doctors use in hospitals at times like these. The name of this vaccine is Peramivir. You may have heard of it under the brand name Rapivab.
What exactly is this Peramivir vaccine?
Simply put, Peramivir is an antiviral medicine . That is, a medicine that is given to suppress viruses. It specifically targets the influenza virus. Therefore, it is only used to treat influenza.
One thing that confuses many people is that this medicine does not work at all for the common cold or other viral infections . It is very important to remember that.
This medicine is usually given within two days of the onset of flu symptoms. It can also sometimes be given to prevent the disease if you have been in close contact with someone who has influenza.
How is this medicine given?
Peramivir is not a medicine you can buy at a pharmacy and take home. It is a medicine that is injected into a vein by a trained doctor or nurse in a hospital or clinic . This treatment usually consists of a single dose.
If you ask whether this medicine is given to children, yes. Usually, even to children over 6 months of age , this vaccine is given in selected cases at the doctor's discretion. However, special precautions are followed for that.
What to do if you overdose?
This is given in a hospital setting so the chances of this happening are very low. However, if you think you have taken too much of this medicine, inform the hospital staff immediately. Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Or go to the nearest hospital Emergency Unit (ETU) .
Things you need to tell your doctor before treatment
Before receiving the Peramivir vaccine, it is essential to provide your doctor with a complete description of your health condition. In particular, be sure to inform them of the following:
| Situation you need to report | Why is that important? |
|---|---|
| If you have kidney disease | This medication is eliminated from the body by the kidneys. If kidney function is impaired, the doctor may need to adjust the dosage. |
| If you have allergies to Peramivir or any other medicine, food, or dye | This can prevent a severe allergic reaction. |
| If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant | Because special care must be taken with the use of medications during pregnancy, the doctor will consider the risks and benefits before making a decision. |
| If you are a breastfeeding mother | It is important to consider whether the medication passes to the baby through breast milk. |
What should we be careful about when taking this medicine?
Pay attention to whether your symptoms improve or worsen after taking the Peramivir vaccine. If your symptoms do not improve or get worse, tell your doctor.
Be careful of dangerous skin reactions!
This is very important. Serious skin reactions can occur weeks or even months after receiving the Peramivir vaccine. So be very aware of these symptoms:
- Red or purple spots on the skin with fever or a feverish feeling.
- The lesions then turn into blisters or the skin peels off.
- Redness and swelling of the skin with swelling of the lymph nodes in the face, lips, or neck/armpits.
If you notice any of these symptoms, inform your doctor immediately .
Mental confusion and unusual behavior
There is a small risk of confusion or abnormal behavior during influenza, especially in children and young children . This can occur early in the illness. Although these are uncommon, they can be life-threatening. Therefore, parents and caregivers should notify their doctor immediately if they notice any unusual changes in their child's behavior (e.g., agitation, seeing/hearing things that are not there).
Important: The Peramivir vaccine is not a substitute for your annual flu shot . Talk to your doctor about the importance of getting a flu shot every year.
What are the possible side effects?
Like any medicine, Peramivir vaccine can cause some side effects. Some of them can be serious and some of them can be common.
| Side effects and their nature | |
|---|---|
| Side effects that should be reported to your doctor immediately | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips or tongue. |
| Mental changes | Confusion, unusual behavior, seeing or hearing things that are not there (hallucinations). |
| Diabetes-like symptoms | Dizziness, dry mouth, dry skin, excessive hunger or thirst, frequent urination. |
| Severe skin reactions | Skin redness, blistering, peeling (even inside the mouth). |
| Side effects that are usually not serious (but should be reported to the doctor if they persist) | |
| Digestive system problems | Constipation, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting. |
| Sleep problems | Insomnia (trouble sleeping). |
Can there be problems with other medications?
Peramivir vaccine may interact with the intranasal influenza vaccine . Therefore, tell your doctor about any other medications, vitamins, herbal remedies, or supplements you are taking.
Take-Home Message
- Peramivir is an antiviral vaccine given intravenously in a hospital to treat influenza (flu).
- This is not at all suitable for the common cold.
- Provide all health information, such as your kidney disease, allergies, and pregnancy, to the doctor before treatment.
- Be on the lookout for severe skin symptoms and unusual behavior in children, even weeks or months after vaccination. If you notice anything like this, seek medical advice immediately.
- Please note that this vaccine is not a replacement for the influenza vaccine (flu shot) that you should get annually.
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