Waterloo Region offers needle-free flu vaccine to kids, youth

For the first time, the Region of Waterloo Public Health department is offering children and youth a needle-free alternative to the flu shot: They can get a spray up the nose instead. 

The nasal spray flu vaccine was available last year, but not through public health departments according to Linda Black, manager of the region's vaccine preventable disease program. 

"Each year, people–children especially–don't get the flu vaccine because they're afraid of needles," Black said. "So, it's a good option for those that don't want an injection." 

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The spray will be administered by family doctors and pharmacists, who are also responsible for administering the flu shot. 

Black said the flu mist is sprayed into both nostrils and then is absorbed through the mucus membrane in the nose. 

Studies have shown that "in children from two to five years old," the nasal spray is a superior method, she said. 

The nasal spray flu vaccine is available in Waterloo Region to children and youth aged two to 17, but is not licensed to be administered to adults. 

Children and youth who receive either the flu shot or the flu mist this year will be protected against four strains of the flu according to the public health office. 

Adults who receive the flu shot will be protected against three strains of the flu.