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Improving Flu Vaccination Uptake in Children: The Role of Intranasal Vaccines
22-Minutes
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Australia recorded more than 410,000 laboratory-confirmed influenza cases in 2025, with vaccination rates in young children falling to just 25%. With an intranasal live attenuated influenza vaccine (LAIV) now being introduced in Australia, what does this mean for general practice?

In this interview Dr Anita Sharma and UK nurse consultant Pauline MacDonald share over a decade of international experience with intranasal flu vaccination. Together they explore:

  • Why increasing vaccination in children and adolescents matters
  • The evidence for efficacy and duration of protection
  • Safety profile and contraindications
  • State funding variations and private availability
  • Step-by-step administration tips
  • How this option may help address needle hesitancy

This interview offers practical insights to support informed discussions with families and improve uptake.

Host

Dr Ginni Mansberg

GP, Author, Podcaster, Presenter.

Guest Experts

  • Dr Anita Sharma

    Dr Anita Sharma

    GP, Brisbane.

  • Pauline MacDonald

    Pauline MacDonald

    Independent Consultant Nurse, UK.

Some of the practices discussed are based on UK guidelines. For AUS guidelines please to refer to the PI and the AIH before prescribing. Please note FluMist® is not listed on the National Immunisation Program (NIP). The substantiating references can be obtained from the Drivetime radio website. Produced in April 2026 by Drivetime Radio, commissioned and funded by AstraZeneca. FluMist is a registered trademark of the AstraZeneca group of companies. Registered user AstraZeneca Pty. Ltd. ABN 54 009 682 311. 66 Talavera Road, Macquarie Park, NSW 2113. www.astrazeneca.com.au. For Medical Information enquiries or to report an adverse event or product quality complaint: Telephone 1800 805 342 or via https://contactazmedical.astrazeneca.com. AU-24867. March 2026. The views expressed are those of the individual speakers and may not represent those of the supporting organisation or Drivetime Radio Australia Pty Ltd.

GP Edition 168.

 

Supported by: Commissioned and funded by AstraZeneca, 66 Talavera Road, Macquarie Park, NSW, 2113. Produced April 2026.

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