Adults in the United States can now self-administer the FluMist nasal spray flu vaccine after receiving approval from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This decision allows individuals between the ages of 2 and 49 to administer the nasal spray without the presence of a health care provider, offering a more convenient option for flu vaccination. The FluMist vaccine has been approved for over two decades and is considered a viable alternative to traditional flu shots.

FluMist, a nasal spray vaccine, has been a popular choice for flu immunization due to its ease of administration and higher convenience factor compared to injections. The FDA's approval for self- or caregiver-administration of this flu vaccine opens up new possibilities for individuals and families to receive their seasonal flu shots with increased flexibility and accessibility. Commonly reported side effects of the FluMist vaccine include fever, runny nose, congestion, and sore throat, which are typically mild and temporary.

Peter Marks, the director of the FDA's Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, emphasized the significance of this approval in a statement, highlighting the potential benefits of self-administration for individuals seeking a safe and effective flu vaccine. With the availability of self-administered flu vaccines, more adults may opt for the nasal spray immunization, contributing to a higher level of protection against seasonal influenza. This approval marks a positive step towards improving the accessibility and convenience of flu vaccinations for the population aged 2 to 49 in the US.