When most people in our country say 'flu', they think of influenza. This flu, which suddenly makes the body ache, causes a runny nose, and makes you stay in bed for days, is something that almost everyone hates. The best way to protect yourself from it is to get a vaccine. But when it comes to getting a shot, not only children but also adults get a little scared, right? The solution to that is the Intranasal Influenza Vaccine, which is given into the nose. In this, there is no needle, but a medicine is sprayed into the nose. Let's talk about this in detail.
What is this vaccine?
Simply put, this is a vaccine that protects you from influenza. But unlike the shot you get in your arm, this is a liquid that you give through your nose. A popular brand name for this is `(FluMist)`.
This involves spraying a live attenuated influenza virus into your nose. When the weakened virus is absorbed by the lining of your nose, your body's immune system begins to fight it off. It's like rehearsing for a war. This means that if a real, strong influenza virus enters your body later, your body is already prepared to fight it off.
The most important thing is that this vaccine will not make you sick with influenza. Also, it only protects against a few strains of influenza virus that are relevant to that year. It does not protect against other illnesses, such as the common cold.
Things you need to tell your doctor before getting this vaccine
This vaccine is not suitable for everyone. Therefore, if you have any of the following conditions, you should definitely tell your doctor before getting the vaccine.
| Situation to be reported | Why is that? (Simply) |
|---|---|
| If you have asthma or wheezing. | This vaccine may cause increased respiratory distress. |
| If you have a weakened immune system (e.g. HIV, cancer, steroid use). | Even a weak virus can cause problems for someone with a weak immune system. |
| If you have previously had a neurological disease such as Guillain-Barre syndrome. | Avoid the very small chance that the vaccine could affect the nervous system. |
| If a child under the age of 18 is taking aspirin or similar medications. | The combination of the influenza virus and aspirin can cause a dangerous condition called Reye's Syndrome. |
| If you have a severe allergic reaction to things like eggs, gelatin, or gentamicin. | These substances are used in the production of some vaccines, which can cause allergies. |
| If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding. | In these cases, you should discuss the safety of this vaccine with your doctor and decide. |
How is the vaccine given and to whom?
This vaccine is given by a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or a trained nurse. They spray the medicine into both of your nostrils with a small device. It is not something you take by mouth.
Who is suitable for this?
This vaccine is generally recommended for healthy people between the ages of 2 and 49 .
- Young children: Talk to your pediatrician if you are giving this to your child. In some cases, it may not be appropriate for children under 2 years of age and children with conditions such as asthma.
- People over 49 years of age: This vaccine is generally not approved for people over 49 years of age.
What if there is an overdose?
Since this is given in a hospital or clinic, the chance of an overdose is very low. However, if you suspect that something has happened, go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) immediately. Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.
What other medications may interact with this vaccine?
Some medications you are taking may affect the effectiveness of this vaccine. So tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking, including prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, herbal remedies, vitamins, and more.
Some of the main types of medications that can cause problems are:
- Medicines that suppress the immune system (e.g. anti-cancer medicines, medicines given to people who have had organ transplants, steroids such as prednisone)
- Aspirin and similar medications
- Other antiviral drugs that treat influenza
- Specific medications such as anakinra
- Other vaccines (some vaccines may require a certain amount of time to be separated)
Things to be careful about after getting vaccinated
Because this uses a live, but weakened virus, you can still shed the virus into the environment for about 7 days after getting the vaccine. It is unlikely that a healthy person will get sick from it.
However, if you have a very weak immune system (for example, cancer patients, bone marrow transplant recipients, or people with severe immunodeficiency), avoid close contact with them for a week after getting vaccinated. This is because even the weakened virus you shed can still affect them. Ask your doctor for more information about this.
What are the possible side effects?
Like any vaccine, this one can cause minor side effects. Most of the time, these are not serious and will subside in a day or two.
| Side effect | What to do? |
|---|---|
| Serious side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately | |
| Severe allergic reactions (skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue) | Seek medical attention immediately. |
| Difficulty breathing, wheezing | Seek medical attention immediately. |
| Lifeless or drooping of one side of the face, unusual muscle weakness | Notify the doctor immediately. |
| Fever over 102 degrees F (38.9 C) | Notify the doctor immediately. |
| Things that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Cold, stuffy nose | This is very common and will subside in a few days. |
| Headache, body ache | It's normal. If it's bothersome, tell your doctor . |
| Sore throat, cough, feeling unwell | These usually go away within a few days. |
Take-Home Message
- The nasal flu vaccine is a needle-free way to protect against influenza.
- This is generally suitable for healthy people between the ages of 2 and 49. Pregnant women, people with weakened immune systems, and those with other medical conditions should definitely talk to their doctor before taking this.
- Don't forget to tell your doctor about all other medications you are taking.
- Since this uses a weakened, live virus, avoid being around people with very low immunity for a week after receiving the vaccine.
- Minor side effects like a cold or headache are common. However, if you experience difficulty breathing or a severe allergic reaction, seek medical advice immediately.
- Because the influenza virus changes every year, it is important to get vaccinated every year for the best protection.
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