A needle-free alternative to the traditional influenza vaccine will be available to Western Australian children aged between two and under 12 ahead of the 2026 flu season.
The State Government has invested $4.78 million to secure 130,000 doses of FluMist for eligible children.
FluMist is an intranasal vaccine and is administered as a gentle nasal spray into both nostrils, making it convenient for children who experience needle anxiety.
The needle-free alternative vaccine provides the same protection against influenza type A and B viruses as the traditional vaccine when administered to children between two and 12.
So far this year, there has been over 17,000 presentations to emergency departments in WA for respiratory-related illnesses in children, and more than 1300 hospital admissions.
The State Government hopes the availability of FluMist will help boost immunisation numbers in young children.
“This new needle-free option will make it easier and more comfortable for parents to protect their children against influenza," Preventative Health Minister Sabine Winton said.
“This initiative is another strong step in our Government’s commitment to lifting childhood immunisation rates, protecting families, and easing the strain on our hospitals during winter.”
The vaccine will be available ahead of the 2026 influenza season, which typically begins in May or June.
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