Facts about FluMist
 As
local stores of flu shots dwindle, FluMist, a version of the flu
vaccine that can be sprayed in the nose, has become increasingly
popular.
Like the flu shot, most people need only one spray each year to
prevent influenza, but unlike the shot, they can forgo the needle.
Is it the vaccine for you?
Who should use FluMist?
FluMist is currently recommended for healthy children and adults
ages 5 to 49. People with immune problems are discouraged from using
FluMist because, unlike the flu shot, FluMist contains live, though
weakened, flu virus. There is a slight chance of getting the flu
from FluMist, so family members or housemates of people with weakened
immune systems are also discouraged from the mist vaccine. If you
fall in one of these categories, it's a better idea to get the flu
shot, because the shot does not contain the live virus.
If you have any of the following conditions you should talk to
your doctor before using FluMist:
- a breathing or respiratory disorder such as asthma
- heart problems or a blood disorder
- diabetes or another metabolic disorder
- kidney problems
- a weakened immune system (or live in the same house as someone
with immune problems)
As with any new medication, you should also talk to your
doctor if you take any prescription or over-the-counter medicines,
including vitamins, minerals and herbal products, to see if there
could be interaction problems. For example, FluMist should not be
given to childen or teens taking aspirin because it increases the
risk of Reye's
syndrome, a rare but often fatal aspirin-related disorder. Other
nasal or anti-viral medications should usually not be used at the
same time as FluMist.
Where and when to get FluMist
FluMist is only available in doctor's offices, hospitals or clinics,
so you will need to make an appointment with your health care provider
to receive the vaccine.
The best time to get the spray is in October or November, but because
the flu season typically peaks between January and March, vaccination
in December or even later can be beneficial. People at high risk
for flu and its complications and their housemates, and health care
workers should be vaccinated in September or October.
More flu facts:
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