The FDA has approved AstraZeneca’s FluMist as the first nasal spray flu vaccine for at-home use, offering a needle-free and convenient option for flu protection. Available with a prescription starting next year.
FDA Approves First At-Home Nasal Flu Vaccine: FluMist
In a significant milestone for flu prevention, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved AstraZeneca’s FluMist, making it the first nasal spray flu vaccine authorized for at-home use. This new option offers needle-shy individuals a convenient alternative to the traditional flu shot, while still requiring a prescription.
FluMist, first approved by the FDA in 2003 for ages 5 to 49, has now been greenlit for self-administration by adults up to 49 years old and for caregiver administration to children between 2 and 17. The vaccine is expected to be available for online orders next year through the FluMist Home website, allowing people to receive the flu vaccine without visiting a healthcare provider. However, the mist will still be available for in-office administration.
Health experts believe this development could significantly boost flu vaccination rates by removing logistical barriers. “This at-home platform is likely to increase uptake, which is crucial before the flu season peaks,” said Dr. Abraar Karan, an infectious disease expert at Stanford.
FluMist contains a weakened form of the live flu virus and is applied via nasal spray. Though effective, some concerns have been raised about proper self-administration. Still, many experts believe that increased accessibility outweighs these risks.
The approval marks a step forward in making vaccines more accessible, a key factor in fighting the flu’s annual toll. Between 2010 and 2023, the flu caused between 100,000 and 700,000 hospitalizations annually, with deaths ranging from 4,900 to 51,000.
AstraZeneca’s new FluMist Home service will feature an online screening process to determine eligibility before shipping the vaccine directly to patients. While out-of-pocket costs for FluMist range from $35 to $45, insurance may reduce or cover the price.
By reducing the logistical challenges of flu vaccination, FluMist could offer a lifesaving option for families seeking flexible, at-home healthcare solutions.
References:
- FDA approves first nasal spray flu vaccine for use at home – Washington Post
- At-home flu vaccines get FDA approval – The Hill
- With FDA nod, AstraZeneca’s FluMist becomes first self-administered flu vaccine – Fierce Pharma
- Nasal Flu Vaccine Is Approved for At-Home Use – The New York Times
- FluMist approved for self-administration in the US – AstraZeneca
- FluMist Prescribing Information.
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