The FluMist vaccine is still an option for kids in Canada — Alberta included — despite getting a thumbs-down in the U.S.
It’s just not as strongly recommended as it once was.
Alberta Health said it will follow the lead of Canada’s National Advisory Committee on Immunization.
The committee completed a review of the nasal spray flu vaccine, Alberta Health said, and found it to be a safe and effective product.
FluMist remains recommended as a vaccination option in Canada, but is no longer recommended over needle injections.
Alberta Health said it will continue to offer both this upcoming flu season.
According to Associated Press, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as well as the American Academy of Pediatrics agree the FluMist vaccine is not as effective, and are recommending flu shots instead.
The Canadian committee’s review was done around the same time as the CDC review.
Whatever option parents choose to go with for their kids this year, immunization is important, Alberta Health said.
“Immunization is the best way for Albertans to protect themselves and others against influenza and we encourage Albertans to get immunized each season,” Alberta Health said in a statement released Wednesday.
