FluMist® Nasal Spray – Needle-Free Alternative to the Flu Vaccine

AVAILABLE TO BOOK ONLINE NOW

UPDATE: From 22 May 2026, the NSW Nasal Spray Influenza Vaccination Program has expanded funding for FluMist® to include children aged 2 to 17 years.

In 2026, NSW Health is funding FluMist®, a needle-free nasal spray influenza vaccine for children aged 2 to 17 years (previously only 2–4 years).

It is available at Village Practice alongside the standard injectable flu vaccines.

Due to supply constraints, FluMist® is being offered as part of a time-limited NSW Government program from April to June 2026, or until stock runs out.

Availability at Village Practice

Village Practice is now stocking government-funded FluMist®, available free for eligible children aged 2–17 years.

Please note:

Stock is limited
Once capacity is reached, bookings will temporarily close
Bookings will reopen as additional stock becomes available

FluMist® is approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) for children and adolescents aged 2–17 years.

What is FluMist®?

FluMist® is a needle-free alternative to the standard flu vaccine, administered as a gentle nasal spray by our clinical team during your child’s appointment.

One spray is given into each nostril
It is quick, painless and needle-free
The vaccine is absorbed quickly — even if your child sneezes afterwards, it will still be effective

Although relatively new in Australia, FluMist® has been used safely in millions of children internationally for over a decade.

How does it work?

FluMist® contains small amounts of weakened flu viruses that help the body learn to fight infection.

Vaccination works by mimicking a natural infection, stimulating your child’s immune system to build protection against influenza. The nasal spray vaccine is as effective as the injectable flu vaccine and helps reduce the risk of severe illness.

Possible side effects

Common side effects are usually mild and short-lived (1–2 days), and may include:

Runny or blocked nose
Headache
Tiredness
Fever
Sore throat

Why this program matters

The NSW Government has prioritised children aged 2–4 years because they:

Are at higher risk of severe illness
Spread influenza easily within the community

In NSW last year:

Over 24,500 influenza cases were reported in children under 5
More than 4,600 visited emergency departments
Over 960 were admitted to hospital

Vaccination rates in this age group remain low, and this program aims to improve protection for young children.

Not sure if it’s right for your child?

Speak with your GP, pharmacist, or Aboriginal Medical Service (AMS) about the most suitable flu vaccine option for your child.

RESOURCES

For more informationon the nasal spray flu vaccine (intranasal live attenuated influenza vaccine or LAIV):