Study explores nasal spray flu vaccine effects in children
· News-MedicalA new study will explore the effects of a nasal spray flu vaccine on children's immune systems, aiming to boost future protection and lower vaccine hesitancy rates.
It's the first study of its kind where some of the samples collected will help the World Health Organization (WHO) formulate flu vaccines and strain selection for children in the Southern Hemisphere.
Associate Professor Tosif, also a pediatrician at The Royal Children's Hospital, said the nasal spray would likely also make vaccination easier and less distressing for children.
Influenza remains a significant public health issue in Australia, particularly among young children. In 2024, more than 365,000 cases of flu were reported nationwide, the highest number on record, with the majority occurring in children under 10.
Despite the availability of effective vaccines, uptake remains low. In Victoria, only 32 per cent of children aged six months to five years and 15 per cent of those aged five to 15 were vaccinated in 2024.
Associate Professor Tosif said the findings would also help the WHO formulate flu vaccines for children.
Danica and George's son Panos, 8, is taking part in the study.
"We're always happy to support child health research. As a family, we stay up to date with the flu vaccine, so we're especially keen to help improve the vaccination experience."
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