Because influenza is not a small matter, and getting vaccinated every year is the best protection
Each year, the influenza virus claims many lives, especially in high-risk groups such as young children, the elderly, pregnant women, or those with chronic diseases. Preventing the disease with the influenza vaccine is the safest and most effective method. Currently, there is also the FluMist Intranasal Vaccine, a new alternative vaccine that does not require a needle injection, making vaccination more convenient, especially for children and those afraid of needles
FluMist Intranasal Vaccine is a nasal spray influenza vaccine (Live Attenuated Influenza Vaccine: LAIV) developed as an option for those who are uncomfortable or afraid of injections, especially children and adolescents. This vaccine is sprayed into the nasal cavity and stimulates immunity without the use of needles
Highlights of FluMist Intranasal Vaccine
- No needle required, reducing fear or anxiety from injections
- Easy to use, just spray the vaccine into the nasal cavity by a doctor or healthcare professional
- Stimulates targeted immunity at the respiratory mucosa, which is the main entry point of the influenza virus
- Suitable for children and adolescents, especially those aged 2 – 17 years
Who is FluMist suitable for
This nasal spray vaccine can be used in children aged 2 years and older up to healthy adults aged 49 years It is recommended for the following groups
- School-age children who are afraid of injections
- Parents who want a needle-free option for their children
- Adults who want a needle-free influenza vaccine
Who should not receive FluMist Restrictions for the FluMist vaccine make it unsuitable for those with the following conditions
- Children under 2 years old or adults over 49 years old
- Immunocompromised individuals
- Children with asthma or a history of respiratory system issues
- Pregnant women
- Those allergic to any component of the vaccine
Possible side effects
Generally, the FluMist vaccine is safe, and side effects are usually mild, mostly including
- Nasal congestion, runny nose
- Sore throat
- Low-grade fever or mild aches
If severe allergic reactions occur, such as difficulty breathing or facial swelling, seek medical attention immediately
Important reasons to get the influenza vaccine every year
- The influenza virus constantly mutates There are many strains of the influenza virus, and they can mutate rapidly each year. Immunity from last year’s vaccine may not protect against new strains this year. Therefore, the vaccine formula is updated annually to match the strains likely to spread, enhancing protection effectiveness
- Immunity from the vaccine decreases over time Even if vaccinated before, immunity gradually decreases within 6 – 12 months. Annual vaccination helps maintain sufficient immunity to cope with the influenza virus during the epidemic season
- Reduces disease severity In cases of infection after vaccination, the vaccine helps reduce symptom severity, such as high fever, body aches, or complications like pneumonia, middle ear infection, or heart failure, which may occur in high-risk groups
- Protects high-risk people around you Vaccination not only protects yourself but also reduces the chance of spreading the virus to others, especially those who may not have sufficient immunity, such as infants, the elderly, or people with chronic diseases, creating herd immunity that helps reduce disease outbreaks in the community
Getting the influenza vaccine every year is an easy, safe, and effective way to reduce the risk of influenza for yourself and those around you, especially during the rainy and winter seasons, which are considered the epidemic seasons
We recommend that you and your family receive the annual influenza vaccine, especially if you are in a high-risk group, and you can consult a doctor to choose the vaccine suitable for each person’s health at Phyathai 2 Hospital
Dr. Renuka Charaspongpisut
Pediatric Neurologist
Child and Adolescent Health Center, Phyathai 2 Hospital
