Both the injectable and the nasal "Flumist" are equally effective, however Flumist is a live vaccine
and CANNOT be given to children who are immune compromised, on cancer chemotherapy, on oral steroids,
have history of asthma, or have household contacts who are immune compromised.
Nasal steroid or inhaled steroid use is not a contraindication and Flumist can be give to those patients WHO ARE NOT IMMUNE
COMPROMISED.
Please refer to the following links for additional information.
Resources for Parents and Caregivers
Arizona doctors running short of seasonal flu vaccine
H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu) and Feeding your Baby: What Parents Should Know
General Questions and Answers on Thimerosal
Seasonal Influenza (Flu) - Q & A: Thimerosal in Seasonal Influenza Vaccine
Asthma Information for Patients and Parents of Patients
Revised Recommendations for the Use of Influenza Antiviral Drugs
What should I do if I get sick
What should I do to keep from getting the flu
H1N1 Vaccination Recommendations
CDC - Seasonal Influenza (Flu) - Vaccination
CDC - Seasonal Influenza (Flu) - Q & A: Seasonal Flu Shot
CDC - Seasonal Influenza (Flu) - Flu Activity & Surveillance
Special Considerations for Children
Aspirin or aspirin-containing products (e.g. bismuth subsalicylate – Pepto
Bismol) should not be administered to any confirmed or suspected ill case of
novel influenza H1N1 virus infection aged 18 years old and younger due to the
risk of Reye syndrome. For relief of fever, other anti-pyretic medications such
as acetaminophen or non- steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are recommended.
Children younger than 4 years of age should not be given over-the-counter cold medications without first speaking with a healthcare provider.