Wouldn’t getting your flu shot be more enjoyable if you knew you could get it done at home?
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recently approved the first-ever “self-administered” flu vaccine, which could become a realistic option as soon as next year.
The vaccine, called FluMist, is an intranasal vaccine that has been on the market since 2003 and is administered by medical staff at a medical facility. It works by activating the immune system with a weakened live influenza virus, and is approved for people between the ages of 2 and 49.
While the vaccine is not expected to be introduced in time for this year’s flu season because a traditional vaccine is already available, it represents another step in reducing the risk of severe illness from a virus that causes 100,000 to 710,000 hospitalizations and 4,900 to 51,000 deaths each year, according to estimates from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The self-administered intranasal vaccine is an important option for people who dislike needles or cannot travel to be vaccinated.
Here’s what you need to know about the upcoming DIY flu vaccine, FluMist.
How can I get the new at-home flu vaccine?
According to the AstraZeneca-owned company’s website, FluMist’s release has been delayed until next year, when it will be available only by prescription.
The FDA said the intranasal vaccine will be available through “third-party online pharmacies,” offering a needle-free option and could even be delivered to your home.
Who can get the flu vaccine at home?
FluMist is only approved for children over 2 years of age and adults under 50 years of age.
That may be because the nasal vaccine contains a weakened live virus that may be less safe for people with weakened immune systems. In addition to age restrictions, the CDC says pregnant women, people with weakened immune systems, and people with other medical conditions should not get the nasal vaccine.
If you have any doubts about whether FluMist is right for you, you will go through the usual prescription and screening process when FluMist becomes available to you.
A “regular” in-hospital injected vaccine, such as the one available for the 2024-2025 virus season, will remain an option.
