FluMist, a vaccine sprayed up the nose to protect against serious influenza symptoms, is now available for anyone in the U.S. to order online and administer themselves or others at home. The vaccine, made by AstraZeneca, has been approved by the FDA for at-home use without a healthcare professional.
Here’s what you need to know about FluMist:
FluMist works by administering two spritzes of weakened flu virus into each nostril, stimulating antibodies against the flu virus in the nasal passages and bloodstream. It is comparable in effectiveness to the traditional flu shot, but may not be as effective for people over 50 due to weaker immune systems.
To vaccinate yourself, order doses through AstraZeneca’s FluMist Home program, which requires review by a pharmacist to confirm eligibility. The vaccine can be stored at home and administered immediately or refrigerated until use.
While FluMist has fewer side effects than the flu shot, it may still cause flu-like symptoms such as a runny nose, congestion, sore throat, cough, fever, and muscle aches.
The convenience of vaccinating at home with FluMist may help address barriers to vaccination, but its impact on vaccination rates remains uncertain. The company aims to educate on the importance of vaccines and break down barriers with this new option.
Source: https://time.com/7309719/flu-vaccine-home-flumist