Nasal Flu Vaccine for Children

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 6, 2024.

What is the nasal flu vaccine?

This vaccine is sprayed into your child's nose to help prevent influenza (the flu). The flu is caused by a virus. The virus spreads through direct contact with someone who has the flu. For example, a person with the virus on his or her hands can spread it by shaking hands with someone. Several types of viruses cause the flu. The viruses change over time, so new vaccines are made each year. The vaccine begins to protect your child about 2 weeks after he or she gets it. The nasal flu vaccine can be given to children who are 2 years or older.

When should my child get a flu vaccine?

Your child should get the vaccine as soon as recommended each year, usually starting in September or October. Children 6 months through 8 years old may need 2 doses. The 2 doses should be given at least 4 weeks apart. The second dose should be given by the end of October. Your child can then usually receive 1 dose each year. Your child's healthcare provider will tell you if your child needs more than 1 dose for any reason.

Recommended Influenza Immunization Schedule

What should I tell my child's doctor before my child gets the nasal flu vaccine?

Your child has any allergies.
Your child has a chronic health problem, such as diabetes or a heart, lung, kidney, or liver disease.
Your child receives dialysis.
Your child developed Guillain-Barré syndrome within 6 weeks of getting a flu vaccine. He or she may not be able to get any flu vaccine unless the provider feels the benefits outweigh the risks.

Who should not get the nasal flu vaccine or should wait to get it?

Your child is sick or has a fever of 101°F (38.3°C) or higher.
Your child is younger than 2 years.
Your child is 2 to 4 years old and has asthma or had wheezing during the past 12 months.
Your child is 5 years or older and has asthma.
Your child regularly takes aspirin or a product that contains aspirin.
Your child had an allergic reaction to a flu vaccine or any part of it.
Your child has a weak immune system or lives with someone else who does.
Your child has had his or her spleen removed, or his or her spleen does not work properly.
Your child took antiviral medicine for the flu in the past 3 weeks.
Your child has a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak or a cochlear implant.
Your adolescent is pregnant.

What do I need to know about the nasal flu vaccine and aspirin?

Do not give your child aspirin for 4 weeks after he or she gets this vaccine. Talk to your child's healthcare providers about safe medicines if needed to control a health condition.

What are the risks of the flu vaccine?

The flu vaccine may cause mild symptoms, such as a fever, headache, and muscle aches. Your child may still get the flu after he or she receives the vaccine. Your child may have an allergic reaction to the vaccine. This can be life-threatening.

Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) if:

Your child's mouth and throat are swollen.
Your child is wheezing or has trouble breathing.
Your child has chest pain or his or her heart is beating faster than normal.
Your child feels like he or she is going to faint.

When should I seek immediate care?

Your child's face is red or swollen.
Your child has hives that spread over his or her body.

When should I call my child's doctor?

Your child feels weak or dizzy.
You have questions or concerns about your child's flu vaccine.

Care Agreement

You have the right to help plan your child's care. Learn about your child's health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your child's healthcare providers to decide what care you want for your child. The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

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