Definition of Nasal flu vaccine

Nasal flu vaccine: A live attenuated (weakened) influenza virus vaccine that is administered as a nasal spray. The brand name for this vaccine is FluMist.

The nasal flu vaccine is recommended only for healthy people between 5 and 49 years of age. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends this vaccine as an acceptable alternative to the inactivated influenza vaccine for healthy children 5 and over. The AAP also encourages influenza immunization of children 6-23 months of age and household contacts and out-of-home caregivers of children less than 2 years of age.

This vaccine may cause nasal congestion, runny nose, sore throat, and a cough -- symptoms like those of a cold (or a very mild case of the flu). These symptoms can be treated with over-the-counter medications. (Children should NOT be given aspirin.)