Made by Maryland-based MedImmune Inc., FluMist is considered to be safe and effective in kids as young as 2, a new study reports.
FluMist was initially approved in 2003 for use in healthy people ages 5 to 49. The vaccine, which is administered through the nose as mist, is the only influenza vaccine on the market that is not a shot.
The recommendation from the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, or ACIP, follows an expanded approval of the vaccine's use last month by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The FDA last month approved its use for the 2 to 5 age group as well.
ACIP members said Wednesday that children with a history of asthma or wheezing should not go for FluMist and opt for a shot. However, the committee didn't recommend FluMist over flu shots.
While Flu shots are still recommended for children ages 6 months to 5 years and those 50 and over as well as other groups at risk for flu complications, FluMist is just another option for young children who are too scared to be pricked by a needle, the Associated Press reports.
The panel also voted to add FluMist to a federal program that pays for vaccines for uninsured or low-income children up to age 19. The panel vote means the vaccine could be added immediately and used by the federal vaccine program.
A dose of FluMist costs about $18, roughly the cost of a flu shot. One dose is recommended annually.
