FluMist, Nasal Flu Vaccine, Revisited

In 2003, FluMist live attenuated influenza vaccine (LAIV) was introduced. Because this was a live vaccine, there were concerns that if it was given to healthcare workers, they might pose a risk to patients. This concern led to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) to review and revise the wording of its flu vaccine recommendations. The ACIP will clarify how healthcare workers can receive the new nasal mist vaccine without compromising the safety of their patients.

If a healthcare worker received LAIV, the worker should not have contact with immunocompromised patients for seven days after vaccination. Hospital visitors who receive LAIV should not visit immunocompromised patients for seven days post-vaccination.

With the current shortage of flu vaccine, FluMist may be used more widely this season. In fact, it is recommended by the CDC for healthy, non-pregnant persons 5–49 years of age.

The company will make three million doses available for this flu season at a lower cost than last year.