If we run out of the thimerosal-free Flu vaccine for children younger than 3 years of age, can the thimerosal-containing vaccine be used?
Yes, if this is all you have available and as long as the age-appropriate dose is administered (0.25 mL for children 6 months through 35 months of age). The known risks to young children from complications of influenza infection outweigh any theoretical risk from the very small amount of thimerosal in the vaccine. NOTE: If using prefilled syringes with 0.5 mL, the unused portion of the vaccine should be discarded.
