FluMist® is a needle-free influenza vaccine given as a gentle nasal spray. Instead of an injection, the vaccine is sprayed into the nose using a small applicator. It is approved in Australia for children and adolescents aged 2 to 17 years.

How does it work?
FluMist contains a live attenuated (weakened) form of the influenza virus.
The virus has been modified so it cannot cause influenza illness, but it helps the immune system recognise the virus.

Because it is delivered into the nose, where influenza infections usually start, FluMist helps the body develop strong immune protection against the flu virus.

How it is given?
— The vaccine is given as a small spray into each nostril.
— It is very quick and generally well tolerated by children.
— The procedure usually takes less than a minute.
— Children can breathe normally during administration.

Children aged 2–8 years receiving influenza vaccine for the first time may require two doses given at least four weeks apart.

Our nurses will advise you if a second dose is recommended. Children who have previously received flu vaccine usually need only one dose each year.

FluMist has been used in millions of children worldwide for more than a decade.

Common side effects are usually mild and may include:

— Runny nose or nasal congestion
— Mild headache
— Low-grade fever
— Mild fatigue

These symptoms usually resolve within 1–2 days.
Serious side effects are very rare.

At Collingwood Medical, the FluMist vaccine costs:
$75 per dose.

This fee includes:

— The vaccine
— Nurse administration
— Clinical screening.

In Victoria, FluMist is not currently funded by the government. This means it is not available free of charge.

However, some children may be eligible for a free influenza vaccine injection under the National Immunisation Programs. If your child qualifies for a free flu vaccine, our team can discuss the available options.

Yes. FluMist is suitable for most children aged 2–17 years.
However, it is not recommended for children who:

— Have severe asthma or active wheezing
— Have significantly weakened immune systems
— Are taking certain medications such as high-dose steroids
— Are pregnant
— Are taking aspirin or salicylate medications

If you are unsure whether FluMist is appropriate for your child, our team can advise you.

Children play a major role in spreading influenza in the community.

Vaccinating children helps:
— Protect them from severe illness
— Reduce missed school and childcare
— Protect vulnerable family members, such as babies, grandparents, and people with chronic illness.

Young children are also more likely than adults to be hospitalised with influenza. Vaccination is the most effective way to reduce the risk of influenza infection and complications.

Yes. The traditional flu injection vaccine is still available and may be recommended for some children.

FluMist is offered as an alternative needle-free option, particularly helpful for children who are anxious about injections.

Influenza is a highly contagious viral infection that affects the nose, throat and lungs. It spreads easily through coughing, sneezing and close contact.

Flu symptoms in children can include:
— High fever
— Cough
— Sore throat
— Runny or blocked nose
— Headache and muscle aches
— Extreme tiredness

Some children may also develop vomiting or diarrhoea.
Most children recover in about a week, but influenza can sometimes lead to serious complications, including pneumonia, dehydration and hospitalisation.

The best time to vaccinate is before the influenza season begins, ideally in April or May. However, vaccination later in the season can still provide protection.

In most cases, yes.
Our clinical team will advise if any spacing between vaccines is recommended.

This is not a problem. The vaccine is absorbed quickly by the lining of the nose, so sneezing does not reduce its effectiveness.