Americans now have a new, more convenient option to protect themselves against influenza: administering the vaccine at home. FluMist, a nasal spray vaccine developed by AstraZeneca, is now available for self-administration across the U.S., following recent approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
First introduced in 2003, FluMist has long been recognized for its ease of use compared to traditional injections. However, until September 2024, it could only be administered by healthcare professionals. With the FDA’s new approval, it becomes the first flu vaccine in the U.S. that people can give to themselves or others without visiting a doctor or pharmacy.
FluMist is delivered as two quick sprays—one in each nostril—triggering an immune response in the nasal passages and bloodstream to guard against severe flu symptoms. Unlike the flu shot, which contains an inactivated virus, FluMist uses a weakened live virus. Both methods offer similar protection for most healthy individuals, but FluMist is approved only for people aged two to 49. Health officials recommend higher-dose shots for those over 65, as their immune systems typically require stronger stimulation.
To order, eligible users can visit flumist.com under the FluMist Home program. Orders are reviewed by partner pharmacists to ensure suitability, and approved doses are shipped to arrive on a chosen date. Because the vaccine must remain cold, it can be used immediately or stored in a refrigerator until needed.
Side effects differ slightly from those of flu shots. While injections may cause soreness at the injection site, FluMist can lead to mild flu-like symptoms such as congestion, sore throat, cough, or muscle aches—an expected reaction to the weakened live virus.
Cost-wise, FluMist is generally more expensive than traditional shots, but insurance typically covers flu vaccinations, minimizing out-of-pocket expenses for most recipients. AstraZeneca officials say the convenience of at-home use could help counter recent declines in flu vaccination rates.
Flu immunization coverage in the U.S. has been falling since the COVID-19 pandemic. During the 2023–2024 season, only 45% of adults and 55% of children aged six months to 17 years received a flu vaccine, marking a drop from the previous year. Experts hope that eliminating the need for clinic visits could help address logistical barriers to vaccination, though skepticism about vaccines remains a challenge.
Elizabeth Bodin, AstraZeneca’s vice president for U.S. marketing, sales, and access in respiratory and immunology, emphasized the importance of expanding access. “Given the reductions in vaccination rates, it’s more important than ever that we break down barriers with FluMist Home,” she said.
With flu season approaching, public health officials will be watching closely to see whether at-home vaccination can boost protection rates and reduce the burden of influenza nationwide.