3 days ago
- Health
- San Francisco Chronicle
Nasal spray flu vaccine can now be shipped to your home. Here's how to get it
The first nasal spray flu vaccine, FluMist, can now be shipped to your home.
FluMist, made by the drug company AstraZeneca, has been approved in the United States since 2003, but its use was limited to health care settings like hospitals and flu clinics. In 2024, the FDA approved it for at-home administration, making it the first nasal spray vaccine approved for widespread use at home.
On Friday, AstraZeneca announced a home delivery service for the product, which infectious disease experts hope will lead to more people getting vaccinated against seasonal influenza. The service is available in 34 states including California, for the upcoming 2025-26 flu season.
Prior to the approval for at-home use, FluMust had been given mostly in pediatricians' offices because many children have a fear of needles. As many as 2 in 3 children and 1 in 4 adults have a strong fear of needles, according to CDC estimates.
Here's what you need to know about the nasal spray vaccine:
It's approved for people aged 2 to 49
Adults can self-administer it; it's given through two sprays, one in each nostril. Children should get it administered by a parent or caregiver.
You need a prescription
Adults can go to to order the vaccine and will be asked to complete a medical screening questionnaire, AstraZeneca said. A licensed health care provider will review the submission to determine eligibility. Once eligibility is confirmed and insurance is verified, the vaccine will be prescribed and shipped directly to consumers' home on the date they selected. It will come with instructions on how to administer, store and dispose the product.
Cost
Cost will depend on individuals' insurance, but most insurance plans cover flu vaccines at no cost.
There is a $8.99 shipping and processing fee per order.
It may not be for everyone
Anyone who is wheezing, has asthma, has Guillain-Barre syndrome, has a weakened immune system or has problems with the heart, kidneys or lung should check with their health care provider before getting FluMust, according to AstraZeneca. People who are pregnant or nursing, or who have diabetes, should also check with their doctor first.
Children under 5 with a history of wheezing should also check with their doctor.
Children and adolescents up to 17 years old who are taking aspirin or medicines containing aspirin should not get FluMust.
Side effects
The most common side effects are runny or stuffy nose, sore throat and fever over 100 degrees.
