Federal panel recommends nasal spray flu vaccine for kids

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- A new recommendation backs nasal spray vaccines to fight the flu in young children over a shot in the arm.

A federal panel now says healthy children aged 2-8 are better off taking nasal spray vaccines to fight the flu over traditional shots. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices added sprays are a more reliable preventative measure.

Parents Action News spoke with say their kids are just happy it doesn't hurt. "Just easier on the kids and just seems to be quicker and easier," said Nicole Jizmejian.

Fresno doctor Bill Ebbelling says FluMist unlike regular shots is made from a live but weakened flu virus and acts fast. "Your body sees the infection. It totally mounts a full and complete battle and the antibody levels are really good and high right in the place you are going to get the infection," said Dr. Ebbelling.

But Dr. Ebbelling cautions the spray version isn't recommended for children with underlying health conditions. "If the infection causes infections elsewhere, like in kids lungs that have asthma it may cause the inflammation to increase," added Ebbelling.

Critics including the American Academy of Pediatrics say FluMist is more expensive, can't be used for all children, and doctors have already ordered their vaccine doses ahead of the fall flu season.

Local health experts say the bottom line is get vaccinated this year. "As we have seen this past year we had several deaths especially younger adults those under 65 who we traditionally don't see, so we have to always be prepared every flu season," said David Luchini with the Fresno County Health Department.

Health experts say if your child has any underlying health issues, always consult your doctor first because making a choice regarding the flu vaccine.