B.C. residents have a new option this year when it comes to avoiding the flu — a preventative nasal spray is now available in Canada.

Medical researchers say there are particular benefits for children from the nasal spray application.

The studies have shown that it's probably more effective than the injected vaccine for children between the ages of two and 18," said Dr. Patricia Daly, Vancouver’s chief medical health officer. "It provides better protection. And interestingly, for children up to age seven, it seems to provide protection against ear infection."

The spray is only being given to healthy people between the ages of two and 50.

And it comes at a price, as it’s not a subsidized medicine.

Flu Mist is available without prescription in drug stores starting next week and will cost about $25.