FluMist nasal spray can now be delivered directly to homes in 34 states, including Michigan, offering a new way to fight the flu without leaving the house.
Experts hope that this convenient option will increase the number of people protected against the flu by making vaccination more accessible.
A celebration took place at AstraZeneca following the announcement of “FluMist Home,” which is now available for most healthy individuals aged two to 49.
The nasal spray vaccine can be self-administered by adults or given to children by a parent.
Joris Silon, AstraZeneca vice president, said, “We did it for our whole family in like five minutes. It was very convenient.”
Commercials for the needle-free vaccine will soon be airing.
The vaccine can be ordered at flumist.com.
A healthcare professional will review the order, and if approved, customers can choose the delivery date for the refrigerated package to arrive at their home.
Silon explained, “In one nostril you would spray and remove the divider, and in the other nostril spray, and you’re done.”
FluMist received FDA approval last year to be self-administered, but was not available for home delivery during the last flu season.
Shelle Allen shared her story about her daughter Madi, who almost died from the flu after missing her annual vaccine.
“Madi was a vibrant child who suddenly became gravely ill with the flu,” Allen said. Madi spent 93 days in the hospital and still suffers from lung problems.
Allen said a home delivery option would have been a game-changer for her family.
She added, “I had that relationship with our healthcare provider, and he told us to come back, and I knew the importance of a flu vaccine. It’s just that our lives got busy.”
Now, a spray of protection can be delivered right to your door.
AstraZeneca says Flu Mist Home should be covered by most insurance plans.
It can be ordered now and scheduled for delivery in September or October.
There is a shipping fee of about $9, which covers up to four doses for a family.