FDA Approves First Self-Administered Nasal Spray Flu Influenza Vaccine To Take At Home
The FDA has approved FluMist nasal spray as the first at-home flu vaccine. People aged 18 and older can now self-administer the nasal spray, with a prescription and detailed instructions. This new option aims to increase accessibility and convenience, offering an alternative to traditional flu shots. Read on to know more.
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a new, more convenient method for receiving a flu vaccine: FluMist nasal spray, which can now be self-administered at home. This marks a significant advancement in the accessibility of influenza vaccinations. FluMist is the first influenza vaccine approved for at-home use, potentially offering a more flexible and convenient option for people and families seeking protection against the flu.
Dr Peter Marks, director of the FDA's Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, highlighted the benefits of this new option, stating that FluMist provides "greater convenience, flexibility, and accessibility." He explains that this development allows people to receive a safe and effective seasonal flu vaccine without having to visit a doctor’s office or pharmacy.
FluMist is not a new product. Initially approved by the FDA in 2003, the nasal spray was designed to prevent the flu in individuals aged 5 to 49. In 2007, the age range was expanded to include children as young as 2. Unlike traditional flu shots, FluMist contains a weakened form of the live influenza virus and is administered via a nasal spray. Until now, however, the spray had to be administered by a healthcare professional.
Under the new approval, people aged 18 and older are authorized to administer FluMist to themselves or to children in their care. However, a prescription is still required to obtain the vaccine. The FDA clarified that individuals opting for self-administration will need to order FluMist through a third-party online pharmacy, where they will complete a screening and eligibility assessment before receiving the vaccine.
To ensure safety and effectiveness, the FDA based its approval on a study that evaluated the usability of FluMist. The study tested whether people and caregivers could follow the provided instructions to safely and effectively administer the vaccine. Anyone prescribed FluMist will receive detailed instructions on how to administer the spray, as well as guidelines on proper storage and disposal of the product.
Influenza remains a significant health threat in the United States. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), flu cases have caused as many as 41 million illnesses, 710,000 hospitalizations, and up to 51,000 deaths between 2010 and 2023. The approval of an at-home flu vaccine option could help reduce these numbers by increasing vaccination accessibility.
As with any vaccine, side effects are possible with FluMist. Common side effects include fever in young children, nasal congestion, and sore throat in adults. However, these reactions are generally mild compared to the risks posed by contracting the flu.
Source: Times Now
