FDA approves first self-administered influenza vaccine

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced that it has approved a self- or caregiver-administered influenza vaccine for use in patients aged 2 to 49 years.

The FDA’s decision comes after public health officials have expressed concerns over the high annual burden of the influenza virus in the United States.

The novel live attenuated vaccine was designed to be delivered intranasally. However, the FDA noted that a prescription will need to be obtained in order to access the novel vaccine. Further, the vaccine should only be administered by individuals aged 18 years and older.

This type of intranasal vaccine has been in use since 2003 and has been used safely and effectively since then. The most common side effects patients may experience following vaccine administration include fevers, runny noses, nasal congestion and a sore throat.

The FDA hopes its approval can improve convenience and access to the influenza vaccine, marking a significant shift in the U.S. vaccination strategy.

Read more: FDA

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