Nasal Spray Flu Vaccine Can Now Be Adminstered At Home In Some States

AstraZeneca's FluMist, the only nasal spray flu vaccine approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), is now available for home delivery in 34 states under the brand name FluMist Home. This marks the first time Americans can self-administer a flu vaccine at home. Adults under 50 can use the spray themselves, while children as young as 2 can receive it with help from a parent or caregiver.

Previously available only at pharmacies or doctors' offices, FluMist can now be ordered online, following a brief medical screening reviewed by a licensed healthcare provider. Most commercial insurance plans cover the cost, with a shipping fee of $8.99. The vaccine is shipped in temperature-controlled packaging to ensure its efficacy upon arrival.

The FDA approved FluMist for self- and caregiver-administration in September 2024, after studies showed adults over 18 could safely administer it. AstraZeneca hopes this convenient, needle-free option will boost vaccination rates, especially after last year's severe flu season, which saw up to 82 million illnesses and 130,000 deaths, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The nasal spray uses a live, weakened version of the influenza virus, providing protection comparable to traditional flu shots. Health experts, including Dr. Peter Hotez from Texas Children's Hospital, emphasize the importance of removing barriers to vaccination, such as the need for appointments and travel to healthcare facilities.

FluMist Home aims to make flu protection more accessible, particularly for busy families. "This first-of-its-kind, at-home, needle-free option offers a critical opportunity to help make protection more accessible," said Ravi Jhaveri, MD, from Northwestern University School of Medicine.