Western Australian kids will have access to a needle-free nasal flu vaccine for the first time in 2026 as part of a new initiative to boost vaccination rates against the life-threatening virus.
All children aged between two and under 12 years old will be eligible to receive the free vaccine, which is delivered as a spray via the nose and offers the same level of protection against the flu as the traditional injectable vaccine.
Professor Chris Blyth, Head of the Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, based at The Kids Research Institute Australia, has been pushing for the introduction of the nasal vaccine for the past 10 years.
“This is the first time ‘FluMist’ has been available in the southern hemisphere – it has been part of vaccination programs for children the northern hemisphere for over a decade, including in school-based programs in the United Kingdom” Professor Blyth said.
The nasal vaccine will be a game-changer – it is convenient, safe, and suitable for children with a fear of needles.
“This new program is coming at a time when we need it most – this year’s flu season has been our worst on record and vaccination rates have been extremely low – less than one in four children aged five or under received the flu vaccine this winter.
“Coverage is even lower in primary school-aged children.
“Unfortunately, there is still a misconception that flu is a trivial illness, yet low vaccination rates in 2025 have led to nearly 30,000 notified influenza cases and thousands of hospitalisations statewide.
Sadly, influenza-related deaths occur every year in all age groups, including children.
“I am very pleased to see the Cook Labor Government investing heavily in safeguarding our kids against flu, especially right through to primary school-aged kids who are often the ones spreading the virus to vulnerable community members,” Professor Blyth said.
The new vaccine will be available ahead of the 2026 influenza season, which typically begins in May or June.
Read the WA Government media release online here.