The FDA greenlit the first over-the-counter flu vaccine, FluMist, as a first-of-its-kind needle-free way to protect against flu at home.
According to manufacturer’s AstraZeneca, more families than ever now have convenient access to flu prevention through the product. However, it won’t be ready for this flu season.
The U.S. FDA approved the first licensed, self-administered flu vaccine, FluMist, another step further on from flu protection ease.
In addition, this needle-free AstraZeneca nasal spray-which, by the way, has been used in medical facilities since 2003-has also been cleared for use at home. This makes flu vaccination easy for people of any age between 2 and 49.
Next flu season, that should be possible to administer through a third-party pharmacy after meeting requirements for eligibility and screening.
Strong supporters include Dr. Peter Marks of the FDA’s Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, who believe that this action could enhance access and encourage more people to receive flu vaccinations.
While the flu vaccine rates have declined, one cannot forget shots are necessary to prevent them. To remove barriers like needles and aid a person to better protect himself or herself from flu season, here’s an at-home, needle-free solution.
The FDA and experts remain skeptical about the broader impact on vaccination rates, however.
