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Get the latest information and updates about FluMist

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Questions to Ask Your Doctor

Start a discussion with your doctor or healthcare provider about FluMist® by asking some or all of the questions below. Click here to download a pdf of the questions.

  • Is FluMist right for my family and me?
  • Does FluMist hurt when administered?
  • Are there any precautions I need to be aware of?
  • Is FluMist covered by my insurance?
  • I live with someone who has a weakened immune system. Can I still get FluMist?

In addition, here are some questions your doctor may ask you:

  • Do you understand the potential benefits and risks of FluMist?
  • Do you (or your child) have asthma?
  • Does your child have recurring wheezing? (This is only if your child is under 5 years old.)
  • Do you understand that FluMist is a weakened live virus vaccine and may have the potential for transmission to household members with weakened immune systems?

Important Safety and Eligibility Information

Who may be eligible for FluMist®?

FluMist® is a vaccine approved for the prevention of certain types of influenza disease in children, adolescents, and adults 2-49 years of age. FluMist may not protect everyone who gets it. FluMist is for intranasal administration only.

Who may not be able to get FluMist?

FluMist is not right for everyone. FluMist must not be given to: people with history of hypersensitivity to eggs, egg proteins, gentamicin, gelatin, or arginine; people with life-threatening reactions to previous influenza vaccinations; and children and adolescents receiving aspirin or aspirin-containing therapy.

Children less than 24 months of age are not eligible for FluMist.

The following people may not be able to get FluMist or may be able to get it only in certain situations: people with asthma or active wheezing, or children less than 5 years of age with recurrent wheezing; people with a history of Guillain-Barré syndrome; people with a weakened immune system; people with long-term medical conditions including heart disease, kidney disease, and metabolic diseases, such as diabetes; and pregnant women.

If your child falls into one of these groups, be sure to tell your healthcare provider. They will decide if FluMist is right for your child.

What are the most common side effects of FluMist?

Most common side effects included runny nose or nasal congestion, sore throat, and fever. For a full list of side effects, please see section 6.1 in the accompanying Product Information.