US approves spray flu vaccine

Theo Reutersthis is the first approved spray vaccine. Peter Marks, director of the FDA’s Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, said the approval of the new vaccine will provide people with a safe, effective, convenient, flexible and accessible vaccination option.

According to the manufacturer, FluMist contains a live, weakened virus, but is as effective as other flu vaccines. The vaccine is for people aged 2-49 who meet the vaccination requirements. People aged 2-17 should not self-administer the vaccine and should be supervised by a healthcare professional.

Washington Post FluMist will be available on the market in 2025, distributed through pharmacies and drug stores. Those who want to buy it must undergo a screening and consultation process at the pharmacy, and when qualified, will be able to use it.

Influenza is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. In the United States, it typically occurs in the fall and winter. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, influenza causes an estimated 9.3 to 41 million illnesses, 100,000 to 710,000 hospitalizations, and 4,900 to 51,000 deaths each year from 2010 to 2023. However, vaccination rates have declined sharply in recent years.

There are currently many types of influenza vaccines in the world, of which three common types are quadrivalent, helping to prevent four strains of seasonal influenza viruses including A/H1N1, A/H3N2, B/Yamagata and B/Victoria. These vaccines are used for children from 6 months to under 9 years old, two doses one month apart, one booster shot annually. Children from 9 years old and adults only need to maintain vaccination once a year.