New Needle-Free Flu Vaccine for Children – FluMist Now Available

At Lakeside Medical Practice Warilla, we are excited to offer information about the new FluMist® nasal spray influenza vaccine, a needle-free flu vaccine now introduced in Australia and supported by the NSW Government for eligible children.

This new option makes flu vaccination easier for young children—especially those who are anxious about needles—while still providing strong protection against influenza during the winter season.

What Is FluMist®?

FluMist® is a nasal spray flu vaccine (also called an intranasal influenza vaccine) that is given as a gentle spray into the nose instead of an injection.

It is a live attenuated influenza vaccine (LAIV), which means it contains a weakened form of the virus that helps the body build immunity safely.

The vaccine is given as:

• One spray in each nostril

• A single dose for most eligible children each flu season

It is a quick, painless, and needle-free alternative to the traditional flu shot.

NSW Government FluMist Program – Who Is Eligible?

From April 2026, the NSW Government has funded the NSW Nasal Spray Influenza Vaccination Program, providing free FluMist® vaccines for children aged 2, 3, and 4 years old.

This includes:

• Healthy children aged 2 to 4 years

• Children who do not have contraindications to the live vaccine

The program is available through:

• GP clinics

• Aboriginal Medical Services

• Community pharmacies

This is part of NSW’s effort to improve childhood flu vaccination rates and reduce serious flu-related illness in young children.

Children Aged 5 to 18 Years Can Also Access FluMist®

Children aged 5 years to 18 years may also be able to receive FluMist® if they prefer a needle-free option instead of the traditional flu injection.

However, for this age group:

• The vaccine is not covered under the NSW Government free program

• A private prescription (script) is required from the GP

• The vaccine will need to be purchased privately through the pharmacy

This is a great option for children and teenagers who are anxious about needles and would prefer a nasal spray instead of an injection.

Our GPs at Lakeside Medical Practice can assess suitability and provide a prescription where appropriate.

Why Is This Important?

Young children are at higher risk of severe illness from influenza and can spread the flu easily to family members and the wider community.

Annual flu vaccination helps:

• Reduce the risk of catching influenza

• Prevent serious complications and hospitalisation

• Protect vulnerable family members

• Reduce the spread of flu in schools and childcare settings

This is why yearly flu vaccination is strongly recommended.

When Is FluMist Not Recommended?

Because FluMist® is a live vaccine, it is not suitable for some children, including those who are:

• Moderately or severely immunocompromised

• Receiving oral salicylate therapy (such as aspirin treatment)

• Children with certain medical conditions where injectable vaccines are safer

In these cases, the standard injectable flu vaccine is recommended instead.

Flu Vaccination at Lakeside Medical Practice

At Lakeside Medical Practice, we offer both:

• Standard influenza vaccinations

• Advice regarding eligibility for the new FluMist® nasal spray vaccine

We proudly support accessible healthcare and help families choose the safest and most appropriate vaccination option for their child.

Our team can help determine whether your child is suitable for FluMist® or if the injectable vaccine is the better option.

Book Your Child’s Flu Vaccine Today

Protect your child this flu season with safe and effective vaccination.

If your child is aged:

• 2 to 4 years – they may be eligible for the free NSW Government FluMist® program

• 5 to 18 years – they may still be able to access FluMist® privately with a GP prescription

Speak to our reception team or book online to arrange your child’s flu vaccination appointment.