Nasal flu vaccine spread to adolescents due to low absorption

ELIGIBILITY FOR THE FREE Nasal Flu Vaccine has been extended to adolescents up to 17 years of age due to low acceptance among children.

LAIV (Live Attenuated Influenza Vaccine), which is given as a single spray into each nostril instead of an injection, had previously been free for children ages two to 12.

Since October, more than 190,000 LAIV vaccines have been administered, of the 460,000 doses distributed to GPs and pharmacists across the country.

Health Minister Stephen Donnelly announced the extension tonight and encouraged parents to vaccinate their children “to protect themselves and others.”

“Getting the flu shot is another way to take care of your children’s health. Children are more likely than adults to get seriously ill from the flu, and they can also transmit the virus for a longer period of time than adults, ”Donnelly said.

“By arranging for them to receive a free flu vaccine, you will help protect your children from a potentially serious illness. It will also help other members of your family and community by reducing the chance of spreading the flu. “

The HSE said it was important for parents to vaccinate their children early, as the first batches of the nasal flu vaccine expire in mid-January.

The move was welcomed by The Irish Pharmacy Union, who said it was an important step in reducing the risk of children and teens spreading the flu to vulnerable people.

“The flu is a very serious and contagious respiratory disease. While it disproportionately affects older people, it is deeply unpleasant at all ages and can have serious long-term impacts, ”said IPU Treasurer Ann Marie Horan.

“Adolescents tend to have a wide range of close contacts, especially at school, and therefore vaccinating them should help maintain the low flu transmission rates that have been seen so far this season.”

Clare Fine Gael Senator Martin Conway asked Donnelly to launch an information campaign highlighting the importance of the vaccine in fostering acceptance.

“Given the low rate of use to date, it is time for a comprehensive awareness campaign to encourage people to receive this vaccine.

“All the focus is on the incoming Covid-19 vaccine at the moment, but we must ensure good acceptance of the nasal flu vaccine as well to protect the health of our population.”

Vaccination is not compulsory, but parents or guardians who want their children to be vaccinated can arrange it with their family doctor or pharmacist.