The nasal spray vaccine known as FluMist has been approved for over 20 years. It can be administered to individuals between 2 and 49 years of age. 

Nasal spray vaccines are considered a viable alternative to shots that offer a higher degree of convenience. Commonly reported side effects included fever, runny nose, congestion and sore throat. 

“Today’s approval of the first influenza vaccine for self- or caregiver-administration provides a new option for receiving a safe and effective seasonal influenza vaccine potentially with greater convenience, flexibility and accessibility for individuals and families,” Peter Marks, director of the FDA’s Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, said in a statement. 

Here’s what to know: 

• With the FDA’s approval, the vaccine can now be administered either by a health care provider in a health care setting or by a vaccine recipient or caregiver who is 18 and older. 
• Those interested in self-administering FluMist will still need a prescription. 
• Once it’s available, FluMist will be delivered to the homes of interested adults. Its manufacturer AstraZeneca has stated more information can be found at FluMist.com. 
• Nationally, flu vaccination rates in the U.S. have been dropping since the COVID-19 pandemic, with rates dropping below 50 percent in the 2022-2023 flu season.