Crying over needles? Fall flu shot available for kids in nasal spray
Posted Oct 2, 2012 12:32 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
Alberta health officials say for the first time children will be able to get a seasonal flu vaccine through nasal spray instead of needles.
Children between two and 17 are eligible for FluMist, but those with respiratory problems such as asthma are advised to get the shot instead.
Alberta’s Chief Medical Officer of Health, Dr. James Talbot, says studies show the spray is more effective for children. But he says it’s still best for adults to get injections.
“As the single most effective means of protecting oneself from influenza infection and illness, annual immunization is an important part of every Albertans’ fall routine,” said Talbot. “We call it an annual immunization for a reason: the virus is continually changing, and to maintain your immunity and be protected for the season ahead, you need to be immunized every year.”
The free vaccine will be available through public immunization clinics, some pharmacies and doctors’ offices starting Oct. 15.
Talbot encourages everyone to get the vaccine but says it’s most important for children six to 23 months, pregnant women, seniors and those with chronic medical conditions.
