FluMist, AstraZeneca's annual flu vaccine, is now available for self-administration through an online pharmacy in 34 states. Approved for use in 2003, the FDA has allowed self-administration since last September to address the challenges faced by individuals in getting vaccinated. AstraZeneca hopes this at-home vaccine option will improve vaccination rates, which are currently low among adults and children. Flu vaccination is crucial to prevent influenza-related illnesses that can lead to hospitalization and death.
"We recognized that people's daily lives are busier than ever, and we knew we needed to meet people where they are facing the realities of real life," said Tonya Villafana, vice president of medical and scientific affairs at AstraZeneca.
Only about 47 percent of adults get vaccinated against flu, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Getting vaccinated each year is the best way to prevent influenza, which causes illness in a substantial proportion of the US population every year and may result in serious complications, including hospitalization and death.
FluMist is designed to remove traditional obstacles to vaccination, things like scheduling clinic visits, waiting in line, and the fear of needles.
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