FluMist Nasal Spray Flu Vaccine for Children

FluMist is a needle-free nasal spray influenza vaccine for children. It is an intranasal live attenuated influenza vaccine (LAIV), approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) for use in Australia for children and adolescents aged 2 years to under 18 years.

In Queensland in 2026, FluMist is available free under the Queensland Government nasal spray flu vaccination program for eligible children aged 2 to 5 years inclusive.

For many families, FluMist may be a helpful option for children who are anxious about needles or prefer an alternative to an injected flu vaccine.

Why influenza vaccination is important

Influenza is more than a common cold. It can cause high fevers, significant illness, missed school or childcare, and sometimes complications requiring medical care or hospital treatment.

Young children are more vulnerable to influenza complications, which is why annual flu vaccination is recommended.

How FluMist is given

FluMist is given as a gentle nasal spray rather than an injection.

A full dose is delivered as:

• one spray into each nostril

The vaccine is quick to administer and generally well tolerated.

Who can have FluMist

FluMist is approved in Australia for children and adolescents aged:

• 2 years to under 18 years

In Queensland in 2026, free access through the state-funded program applies to:

• children aged 2 to 5 years inclusive

Older children may still be able to receive FluMist privately, depending on availability and clinical suitability.

Who cannot have FluMist

FluMist is not suitable for everyone.

It should not be given to children who:

• are under 2 years of age
• have had a serious allergic reaction to a previous flu vaccine or vaccine ingredient
• are moderately or severely immunocompromised
• are taking aspirin or salicylate medication regularly
• are currently unwell with significant wheezing or certain acute respiratory illnesses

In these situations, the standard injected flu vaccine may be recommended instead.

Children under 2 years of age

Children aged 6 months to under 2 years are still recommended to receive the standard injected flu vaccine, as FluMist is not approved for this age group.

Common side effects

Most side effects are mild and short-lived. These may include:

• runny nose
• blocked nose
• mild fever
• tiredness
• headache
• reduced appetite
• sore throat

Serious reactions are uncommon.

Can FluMist give my child the flu?

No. FluMist does not cause influenza illness. It works by helping the immune system recognise and respond to influenza viruses.

Is FluMist better than the injection?

Both FluMist and injected flu vaccines are effective options when used in the appropriate age groups.

For some children, the main advantage of FluMist is that it is needle-free, which can make vaccination easier and less stressful.

Summary:

FluMist may be a suitable option if your child:

• is aged 2 years or older
• dislikes needles
• is eligible under the Queensland program
• has no medical reason to avoid FluMist

The best vaccine depends on your child’s age, health history, medications, and current symptoms.

Need advice?

If you are unsure whether FluMist is right for your child, our doctors can help guide you.

Please contact 188 Medical to discuss flu vaccination options for your family.