New to the vaccine scene this year is the nasal flu vaccine
(Flumist) covered for children ages 2-17. It has actually been shown to provide
better protection in kids aged 2-8. One big difference with the Flumist and
regular injected vaccines is that Flumist is a live attenuated influenza
vaccine. Precautions need to be taken to ensure that Flumist is never injected
with a needle. For instructions on administering Flumist, visit the link below:
A few special considerations for the live attenuated
influenza vaccine:
It is contraindicated for immunocompromised people, people
with severe asthma, those who are pregnant or may soon become pregnant, those
with an egg allergy, and those receiving Aspirin therapy currently or within
the last 4 weeks.
Special precautions must be made for those who are in
contact with severely immunocompromised people. Since the vaccine contains
weakened but live virus, in rare occasions, it can be transmitted through
respiratory secretions.
Taking antiviral medication at the same time as receiving
Flumist has potential to interfere with the immune response.
TB skin tests given in the 4 weeks after receiving Flumist
can result in a false negative.
For more information regarding Flu vaccines, check out
www.immunizebc.ca