Winter Wellness 2026 —Introducing FluMist: The Needle-FreeFlu Vaccine Now Available at Gordon Village General Practice
- Dr Sarah Saw
- Apr 15
- 2 min read
Winter is coming and this year, protecting your family from influenza has never been easier.
We are excited to let our patients know that FluMist, Australia’s first needle-free influenza
vaccine, is now available at Gordon Village General Practice. For families with children who dread the annual flu jab, this is a genuine game changer.
What is FluMist?
FluMist is a live attenuated influenza vaccine delivered as a gentle nasal spray - one small
spray into each nostril. No needles. No tears. Just simple, effective flu protection. It has been used safely in the United Kingdom, United States, Canada and Europe for many years, and is now available in Australia for the first time this winter.
Who is it for?
FluMist is approved for children and adolescents aged 2 to 17 years. In NSW, it is available
free of charge for children aged 2 to 4 under the state government program. For children
aged 5 to 17, it is available on the private market.
Is it as effective as the injectable vaccine?
Yes - FluMist provides similar protection to the traditional flu injection. And because it is
delivered directly into the nose — where influenza viruses actually enter the body — it
triggers an immune response right at the point of entry.
What about side effects?
Side effects are mild and short-lived. Some children may experience a runny or blocked
nose, and occasionally a mild fever or headache. FluMist is not recommended for children
who are severely immunosuppressed or who take aspirin regularly. If your child has severe asthma or a complex medical history, please speak with your GP before booking.
What about adults?
The traditional injectable flu vaccine remains available for adults and is strongly recommended, particularly for those over 65, pregnant women, and anyone with a chronic health condition. Please call our reception team to book your flu vaccination for yourself and for the whole family.
Book Now
Flu season is well underway - don’t wait. Call our reception team on (02) 9498 1888 to book your flu vaccination appointment today.
Gordon Village General Practice - caring for the community since 1930.
