The FDA has approved a self-administered nasal influenza vaccine, FluMist. This marks the first influenza vaccine that doesn’t require a healthcare provider’s administration. Adults ages 18-49 can self-administer the vaccine, while caregivers can administer it to children ages 2-17.
FluMist has been approved since 2003 and is a live attenuated influenza vaccine administered via a nasal spray. The vaccine will be available through a third-party online pharmacy, which will screen patients for eligibility and provide a prescription.
Influenza infections contribute to millions of illnesses, hospitalizations, and deaths in the U.S. annually. Vaccination is the best way to prevent influenza, and the self-administered FluMist provides another option for protection.