Nasal Spray Flu Vaccine Discouraged for Upcoming Season: What PA Residents Need to Know

Why it matters locally: The CDC's recommendation against using the nasal spray flu vaccine (LAIV) this coming flu season directly impacts Pennsylvania residents, particularly families with children. Previously, the nasal spray was a popular and needle-free flu vaccine option, especially for kids. With this option no longer recommended, Pennsylvanians will need to rely more heavily on flu shots (IIV). This could lead to increased demand on clinics and pharmacies offering flu shots, potentially causing longer wait times or requiring residents to schedule appointments further in advance. Parents who preferred the nasal spray for their children will need to discuss alternative vaccination strategies with their pediatricians.

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Atlanta, GA – The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) voted on Wednesday to recommend that the live attenuated influenza vaccine (LAIV), commonly referred to as the nasal spray flu vaccine, not be used during the 2016-2017 influenza season. The decision follows data analysis indicating concerns about the effectiveness of the LAIV. Details surrounding the specific data that prompted the committee's decision were not immediately available in the initial announcement. The ACIP is an advisory group that provides recommendations regarding vaccine use to the CDC. These recommendations are often adopted as public health policy across the United States. Further information outlining the details surrounding the vote and the data leading to the recommendation is expected to be released by the CDC in the near future. The recommendation means that health care providers and public health officials are advised to prioritize the use of other available influenza vaccines, such as the inactivated influenza vaccine (IIV), commonly given as a flu shot, when vaccinating patients against the flu for the 2016-2017 season.