The nasal vaccine takes the lead in the fight against the flu
[20 February 2007 - 09:45]
Spray vaccines against the flu apparently protect children more effectively than traditional vaccines. This news will delight anyone afraid of injections. French children will have to wait a little longer, however.
FluMist – that’s the name of the vaccine – is currently available only in the United States. And in Europe, only Switzerland has this type of vaccine which appears to have a number of advantages. First, it is simple to use: just two sprays in the nose. Second, it is apparently much more effective, targeting the nasal barrier which constitutes the virus’ natural entrance channel.
According to a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine, compared with traditional vaccines, FluMist reduces by 55% the probability of children becoming infected by the flu virus. This study was conducted in sixteen different countries, on 8,475 children aged between 6 months and 5 years.
The vaccine was approved by the American Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in July 2003. Aimed at preventing flu types A and B, it is recommended for children and teenagers aged between 5 and 17. And also for adults aged between 18 and 49. When will it be available in France? That’s still a mystery…
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