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Frequently Asked Questions About FluMist®

Q: How well did FluMist work compared to the flu shot in children 2-5 years of age?
A: In a large study of over 4,000 children 2 to 5 years of age during the 2004-2005 flu season, the group of children who received FluMist had fewer cases of flu than the group who received the flu shot. However, since flu strains change from year to year, past study results do not guarantee future flu season results. (Note: Children less than 24 months of age are not eligible for FluMist.)

Q: Can I get the flu from FluMist?
A: FluMist is a weakened live virus vaccine — that means it is made from a live virus that has been designed so as not to cause the flu.

Q: What are the side effects of FluMist?
A: The most common side effects of FluMist in children and adults included runny nose or nasal congestion, sore throat, and fever. For more information, see Side Effects of FluMist.

Q: When can my child get FluMist?
A: You may be able to have your eligible child vaccinated with FluMist at a regularly scheduled visit instead of making a special appointment. Learn more about Getting FluMist.

Q: Where is FluMist available?
A: FluMist is available through your healthcare provider. Be sure to check with your doctor about availability; we are unable to provide that information.

Important Safety and Eligibility Information

Who may be eligible for FluMist®?

FluMist® is a vaccine approved for the prevention of certain types of influenza disease in children, adolescents, and adults 2-49 years of age. FluMist may not protect everyone who gets it. FluMist is for intranasal administration only.

Who may not be able to get FluMist?

FluMist is not right for everyone. FluMist must not be given to: people with history of hypersensitivity to eggs, egg proteins, gentamicin, gelatin, or arginine; people with life-threatening reactions to previous influenza vaccinations; and children and adolescents receiving aspirin or aspirin-containing therapy.

Children less than 24 months of age are not eligible for FluMist.

The following people may not be able to get FluMist or may be able to get it only in certain situations: people with asthma or active wheezing, or children less than 5 years of age with recurrent wheezing; people with a history of Guillain-Barré syndrome; people with a weakened immune system; people with long-term medical conditions including heart disease, kidney disease, and metabolic diseases, such as diabetes; and pregnant women.

If your child falls into one of these groups, be sure to tell your healthcare provider. They will decide if FluMist is right for your child.

What are the most common side effects of FluMist?

Most common side effects included runny nose or nasal congestion, sore throat, and fever. For a full list of side effects, please see section 6.1 in the accompanying Product Information.