Needle-free flu vaccine now available for WA kids
Henry (aged 3) and Grace (aged 2) were among the first Western Australian children to receive the FluMist vaccine. Pictured with Child and Adolescent Community Health Nurse Bev, Hon Sabine Winton MLA, Minister for Preventative Health; Hon Meredith Hammat MLA, Minister for Health; and their mum Jemma
Families across Western Australia can now access a needle-free influenza vaccination, with Australia’s most comprehensive FluMist program rolling out today.
Eligible children aged 2 to 11 years can access the intranasal spray vaccine, offering a simple and painless alternative to the traditional injection.
The vaccine will be available through Child and Adolescent Community Health Immunisation clinics and at the Perth Children’s Hospital Stan Perron Immunisation Centre, as well as GPs, Aboriginal Medical Services and pharmacies across the state.
FluMist provides a safe and painless alternative for many children who may be anxious about needles.
The vaccine is highly effective, providing equivalent protection against influenza A and B to traditional injectable influenza vaccines.
"Vaccination remains one of the most effective ways to prevent serious illness and protect community health,” said Hon Sabine Winton MLA, Minister for Education; Early Childhood; Preventative Health; Wheatbelt.
“Providing a needle-free option helps remove barriers for families and supports informed health decisions.”
The introduction of FluMist is expected to increase influenza vaccine rates among young children and help reduce the spread of influenza across the community during winter.
“Increasing vaccination uptake is an important step in reducing influenza-related illness and easing seasonal pressure on our health system,” said Hon Meredith Hammat MLA, Minister for Health; Mental Health.
“Offering a needle-free option makes vaccination easier for children, meaning more kids will take part.”
Register for an immunisation appointment at one of our CACH Clinics, or visit HealthyWA to learn more.