When it Comes to the Flu Vaccine, Shots Are Better

By: Cohen, Placitella & Roth @ Oct 03, 2016

Kids and their parents around the United States are in for a sore surprise: when it comes to vaccinating against the flu, the traditional shot proves to be more effective than the nasal spray. In fact, an article in The New York Times states that the nasal spray should not be used at all to protect against the upcoming flu season. The article’s conclusion parrots the recommendation made by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices.

Committee Concludes that Nasal Vaccine Does Not Work

Those who dislike needles and parents with children who cowered at the thought of a shot were thrilled when early studies suggested that the nasal spray vaccine was more effective than the injectable version. But new data suggests just the opposite, with the Advisory Committee on Immunization flat out declaring that the nasal spray vaccine doesn’t work, and that children and adults alike should opt for the shot instead. The American Academy of Pediatrics endorsed the recommendation.

Everything You Need to Know about the Inefficacy of the Nasal Spray Flu Vaccine

The nasal spray that so many parents prefer is known as FluMist. It was approved for use in those ages two to 49 years old, but not for pregnant people or those who are immunocompromised, including the very young or the very old. This recommendation was based on the fact that FluMist contains live virus. According to the Times’ article, approximately one-third of all children who were vaccinated against the flu in the U.S. were done so using FluMist.

But FluMist is not nearly as effective as it was believed to be at the time of its approval. To be sure, data from the 2015-2016 flu season showed an efficacy rate of only three percent; essentially no protection at all, and concluded that FluMist does not work against the H1N1 flu strain, which is becoming ever more threatening. On the other hand, the injectable version of the vaccine, given via shot, is about 63 percent effective.

The Importance of Getting Vaccinated

FluMist or not, it is extremely important for all people to get vaccinated against the flu, especially children. Doctors recommend that children over six months old get vaccinated – vaccinations for all other people are important to protect not only themselves, but also those who are too young to receive the vaccination.

Contact a Philadelphia Medical Malpractice Lawyer Today

FluMist is manufactured by AstraZeneca, which has released a statement disputing findings of inefficacy. When the manufacturer of a product, including a vaccine, creates a product that is defective and potentially dangerous, consumers harmed by said product may have a cause of action. If your child contracted H1N1 after being vaccinated with FluMist, and died or suffered severe adverse health effects as a result, you may have a claim.

At the law firm of Cohen, Placitella & Roth, P.C., our experienced Philadelphia medical malpractice attorneys are committed to staying abreast of vaccination research and patient safety updates. If you think you may have a claim, call us today to learn how we can help.