FLUMIST Gains Approval for Convenient Home Use as Vaccine

FLUMIST Approved for Self-Administration in the US

WILMINGTON, Del.-- FLUMIST has made history as the first self-administered influenza vaccine approved in the US. This innovative needle-free nasal spray is designed for adults up to 49 years, while parents or caregivers can assist those aged 2 to 17. The approval from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) resulted from an extensive joint study that confirmed usability for individuals over 18 to self-administer or provide the vaccine to eligible younger individuals.

Significance of FLUMIST’s Approval

Reflecting on this monumental step, Dr. Ravi Jhaveri, renowned expert in infectious diseases, emphasized that for the first time, families and caregivers will protect themselves from influenza conveniently within their own homes without needles. Annually, influenza presents significant challenges to communities, healthcare systems, and individuals. This new avenue for vaccination underscores the necessity for broader access and bridges disparities in healthcare.

Accessibility and Convenience

Iskra Reic, Executive Vice President at AstraZeneca, illustrated that this new approval brings us closer to overcoming barriers in healthcare access. For over two decades, FLUMIST has been the only licensed nasal spray flu vaccine in the US, and now it allows individuals and families to obtain their vaccinations conveniently outside conventional healthcare environments.

Seasonal Influenza Impact

Seasonal influenza leads to an astounding 1 billion infections each year, with 3 to 5 million patients experiencing severe cases requiring medical attention. Beyond health impacts, influenza also significantly disrupts daily life, contributing to approximately 47% of missed school days and 1-2 lost workdays annually. In recent times, vaccination rates have shown a troubling decline since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the urgent need for accessible vaccination options.

Direct Home Delivery Options

With the launch of FLUMIST Home, eligible individuals aged 18 and over can receive the vaccine directly delivered to their homes. The process is straightforward, as individuals complete a questionnaire reviewed by a pharmacist before shipment. Traditional healthcare facilities will continue offering FLUMIST for professional administration.

Safety Information for FLUMIST Users

Before using FLUMIST, it is essential to consider certain important safety criteria. Individuals with severe egg allergies or previous serious vaccine reactions should refrain from using FLUMIST. For children aged 2 through 17, consultation with healthcare providers is crucial, especially if they take aspirin or have a history of wheezing. Most common experiences post-vaccination can include a runny nose, sore throat, or mild fever.

Understanding FLUMIST

As the only live attenuated influenza vaccine (LAIV) offered through a nasal spray format, FLUMIST is recommended by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) and the American Academy of Pediatrics. Since its approval in 2003, it has played a vital role in influenza prevention, with nearly 200 million doses administered globally. AstraZeneca’s commitment to continual improvements and innovations in vaccine delivery is evident through the recent usability studies, showcasing that self-administration of FLUMIST holds up in efficacy and safety.

AstraZeneca: Pioneers in Biopharmaceuticals

AstraZeneca stands as a leading global biopharmaceutical company driven by science and a mission to discover, develop, and commercialize new medications across various fields including Oncology, Rare Diseases, and other therapeutic areas. With a strong presence in over 125 countries, AstraZeneca's groundbreaking medicines reach millions of patients, making significant impacts on global health.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is FLUMIST?

FLUMIST is a live attenuated influenza vaccine delivered through a nasal spray, approved for use in children, adolescents, and adults aged 2 to 49.

2. Who can self-administer FLUMIST?

Adults aged 18 to 49 can self-administer FLUMIST, while parents and caregivers can administer it to children aged 2 to 17.

3. What are the common side effects of FLUMIST?

Common side effects include a runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, and slight fever above 100°F.

4. How can I receive FLUMIST at home?

Individuals 18 years and older can complete a questionnaire to qualify for home delivery of FLUMIST through the FLUMIST Home service.

5. What are the safety considerations for using FLUMIST?

People with severe allergies to egg proteins, previous life-threatening reactions to vaccines, or specific health conditions should consult their healthcare provider before using FLUMIST.

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