In a groundbreaking move, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the first nasal spray flu vaccine for self-administration. This means that starting next autumn, Americans can receive AstraZeneca's FluMist through online pharmacies without needing a healthcare provider.
The needle-free FluMist vaccine, based on a weakened live influenza virus, will be shipped to consumers following a screening assessment, offering a more convenient and accessible option for flu prevention.
\"Today's approval of the first influenza vaccine for self- or caregiver-administration provides a new option for receiving a safe and effective seasonal influenza vaccine potentially with greater convenience, flexibility and accessibility for individuals and families,\" said Peter Marks, a top FDA official.
The vaccine is authorized for use by anyone over 18 to administer to themselves or others, and is approved for individuals aged two to 49. According to the World Health Organization, seasonal influenza causes around a billion infections annually, resulting in up to 650,000 deaths.
Vaccination rates have declined by 3.3 percent since the 2020-21 season, but experts believe that at-home vaccination options like FluMist could help boost uptake and protect more people during flu season.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com