Previously the nasal influenza vaccine Flumist® is limited to healthy children aged 5 and older and adults up to 49 years of age.

Now, it has been recently approved by the US FDA to include children aged 2-5.

According to Jesse L. Goodman, M.D., director, FDA's Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research:

"The goal of preventing influenza is now more attainable with the availability of FluMist for younger children. This approval also offers parents and health professionals a needle-free option for squeamish toddlers, who may be reluctant to get a traditional influenza shot."

I am 34, had a C-section some 5 years ago, yet I am still squeamish of needles. While my son, almost 5, is not afraid of imaginary monster but is terrified of needles. We'll both take Flumist® anytime, which conntains a weakened form of the live virus and is sprayed in the nose.

Find more details from the FDA News.

Flumist® is a product of MedImmune Vaccines, Inc..

[Photo Credit: Nature]