FluMist Nasal Spray Flu Vaccine for Children

A needle-free flu vaccine option for some children

FluMist is a nasal spray flu vaccine. It can be a great option for children who are worried about needles.

For many children it is a safe and effective way to help protect against influenza. However, it is not suitable for every child, so please read the information below and let us know if you are unsure.

Where This Information Comes From

This page is based on information from the National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance as at 27 March 2026.

Page title: Influenza vaccines frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Website: ncirs.org.au
Accessed: 27 March 2026

This page is a general guide only and does not replace advice from your doctor or nurse and will not be updated. We don’t accept responsibility for the accuracy of the information below but have provided it as a simple explanation as of this date for currency that you should check for accuracy with your nurse, GP or pharmacist before acting upon.

What Is FluMist?

FluMist is a flu vaccine given as a spray into the nose instead of an injection.

It is a live attenuated influenza vaccine. This means it contains weakened flu viruses designed to help the immune system build protection. It is not expected to cause influenza illness.

Who Can Have FluMist?

FluMist is approved in Australia for children aged 2 years to under 18 years.

In NSW in 2026, it is funded for children aged 2 years to under 5 years.

How Is It Given?

FluMist is given as a quick spray into each nostril.

Most children need 1 dose each year.

Children aged 2 to under 9 years need 2 doses, 4 weeks apart, if they are receiving it for the first time.

Does It Work?

Yes. FluMist is considered a safe and effective flu vaccine when used in the right children.

Can It Give My Child the Flu?

No. The viruses in FluMist are weakened and are not expected to cause influenza illness.

Common Side Effects

Side effects are usually mild and short-lived. These can include:

• Runny nose
• Blocked nose
• Headache
• Tiredness

When Might FluMist Not Be Suitable?

Please tell us before vaccination if your child:

• Is under 2 years old
• Has had a serious allergic reaction to a flu vaccine or one of its ingredients before
• Is moderately or severely immunocompromised
• Takes aspirin or another salicylate medicine
• Has had recent wheezing or poorly controlled asthma
• Has a very blocked or very runny nose on the day

In some of these situations, a standard injected flu vaccine may be a better option.

What if My Child Has Asthma or Wheeze?

Some children with asthma or wheeze can still have FluMist.

However, if your child has had recent wheezing or their asthma is not well controlled, it may be better to delay FluMist or use the injected flu vaccine instead.

What if My Child Lives With Someone Who Is Severely Immunocompromised?

Please let us know before vaccination.

After FluMist, a child may shed a very small amount of weakened vaccine virus for a few days. The risk to others is thought to be very low, but there is a theoretical concern for people who are severely immunocompromised and living in close contact during the first 1 to 2 weeks after vaccination.

If this applies to your household, an injected flu vaccine may be the better choice.

Does FluMist Contain Porcine Gelatine?

Yes. FluMist contains porcine gelatine.

This may be important to some families for religious, ethical or dietary reasons, including some Jewish, Muslim, Christian, vegetarian and vegan families.

Some religious authorities consider its use in vaccines acceptable, but some families may still prefer to avoid it. If so, a standard injected flu vaccine is usually available instead.

Can FluMist Be Given With Other Vaccines?

Yes. FluMist can generally be given on the same day as most other vaccines.

Please Tell Us Before Booking or Vaccinating if Your Child

• Is under 2 years old
• Is immunocompromised
• Takes aspirin or another salicylate
• Has had recent wheeze or unstable asthma
• Has a very blocked nose
• Lives with someone who is severely immunocompromised
• Needs to avoid porcine gelatine for religious, ethical or dietary reasons

In Summary

FluMist is a needle-free flu vaccine that can be a very good option for many children.

It is not right for every child, so if you are unsure, please speak with our team before vaccination.