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Needle-free flu jab made free for kids

Sep 18, 2025

A needle-free flu vaccine will be offered free to NSW children aged between two and five years old, starting before the 2026 flu season.

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Currently awaiting regulatory approval in Australia, the FluMist intranasal vaccine has been successfully used throughout the Northern Hemisphere.

The vaccine, which offers the same protection as traditional injections, will be available through GPs.

“We hope the offering of a needle-free alternative will support parents' decisions to protect their children against this serious disease,” NSW Health Minister Ryan Park said.

Statistics show children aged 0-4 make up 13 per cent of flu cases reported in NSW until August 31, 2025.

NSW Chief Health Officer Dr Kerry Chant said more than 3000 children under five have presented to emergency departments with flu-like symptoms this year, with over 600 requiring hospitalisation.

“Even previously healthy children can experience severe complications from influenza, so it is great that we will be able to offer a new method of vaccination which can help support healthier communities during the winter months,” Dr Chant said.

Subject to regulatory approval, the vaccine is expected to be available privately for other age groups. For more information, visit https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/immunisation/pages/default.aspx.