CPT® Code 90673

Influenza virus vaccine, trivalent (RIV3), derived from recombinant DNA, hemagglutinin (HA) protein only, preservative and antibiotic free, for intramuscular use

The CPT® Code 90673 refers to the Influenza virus vaccine, specifically a trivalent formulation known as Flublok. This vaccine is unique as it is derived from recombinant DNA technology and does not utilize the traditional influenza virus or eggs in its production. Instead, it employs an insect virus, specifically a baculovirus, to express the hemagglutinin (HA) protein, which is a critical component of the influenza virus that elicits an immune response. The trivalent nature of this vaccine means it contains three full-strength recombinant HA proteins, designed to provide immunity against two distinct strains of Influenza A and one strain of Influenza B. The administration of this vaccine is performed via intramuscular injection, and it is important to note that the reporting of the vaccine's administration is done separately from the vaccine code itself. This innovative approach to vaccine production allows for a more rapid response in the event of a pandemic influenza outbreak, as it can facilitate quicker manufacturing and larger quantities of the vaccine to be produced when necessary.