America Approves First Home-Use Influenza Vaccine

America Approves First Home-Use Influenza Vaccine
September 21, 2024, 3:49 pm

لقاح إنفلونزا

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the first influenza vaccine that can be used at home, a nasal spray called "Flumist." Consumers with a prescription will be able to order it online starting next year, according to the Washington Post.

The vaccine's manufacturer, AstraZeneca, clarified that the vaccine will be available through an online pharmacy managed by a third party, where individuals will undergo an evaluation to determine their eligibility for using the vaccine. After the evaluation, the pharmacy will decide whether they can receive the vaccine.

The method of use is simple, as only one dose is sprayed into each nostril. The cost of "Flumist" without health insurance ranges from $35 to $45, while many insured individuals can get the vaccine for free.

Health experts believe that the ease of using "Flumist" could contribute to increased vaccination rates against influenza, especially among those who fear needles. Although "Flumist" is the only vaccine given through the nose, it is not new; it was approved in 2003 for individuals aged 5 to 49 and was expanded in 2007 to include children aged two years.

Eligible individuals can receive the vaccine from healthcare providers, but if they choose to get it at home, the person administering the vaccine must be 18 years old or older.

Dr. Scott Roberts, an infectious disease specialist at Yale University School of Medicine, states that this vaccine could be an ideal option for those who fear injections, making it easier for them to get vaccinated.

Studies have shown that the effectiveness of the influenza vaccine, whether administered via injection or nasal spray, is similar. However, individuals with weakened immune systems, pregnant women, and those with certain medical conditions are still not eligible to receive this vaccine due to the risk of potential side effects.

Seasonal influenza is a highly contagious disease, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimating that between 4,900 and 51,000 people die annually from it between 2010 and 2023.

In the past two years, vaccination rates against influenza have remained stable, but they have been lower than during the COVID-19 pandemic period (2020-2021).

Source: Al-Hurra

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