The nasal spray flu vaccine may be a great option for people who fear needles. Known formally as the live attenuated influenza vaccine, or LAIV, the nasal spray flu vaccine is made from a weakened flu virus that is sprayed into the nose.
If you’re interested in getting the nasal spray flu vaccine, ask your doctor if you are eligible and if it's a good option for you.
References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Live, intranasal influenza VIS.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). Live attenuated influenza vaccine (LAIV)/the nasal spray flu vaccine.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). Who is at a higher risk of flu complications?
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Types of influenza viruses.
Why trust our experts?
Written by:
Lauren Smith, MALauren Smith, MA, has worked in health journalism since 2017. Before joining GoodRx, she was the senior health editor and writer for HealthiNation.
Reviewed by:
Brian Clista, MDDr. Clista is a board-certified pediatrician who works in private practice in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He previously served as a National Health Service Corporation Scholar in the inner city of Pittsburgh for 11 years.
