The Minns Labor Government in New South Wales (NSW) has announced a new initiative to provide a free intranasal influenza vaccine for children aged two to under five years. This program is set to commence in 2026, just ahead of the winter influenza season, aiming to improve vaccination rates among this vulnerable age group.
Influenza vaccination rates for children under five remain alarmingly low, despite the fact that they are at heightened risk for severe illness. According to health officials, while anyone can contract influenza, certain demographics—including young children—are particularly susceptible to complications. The new FluMist intranasal vaccine has been in use in the Northern Hemisphere for several years and is currently undergoing regulatory approval in Australia.
This needle-free vaccine option offers the same level of protection as the existing injectable vaccine for young children. It will be accessible through general practitioners, making it easier for parents to have their children vaccinated. The introduction of this alternative is expected to significantly increase the uptake of influenza vaccinations among children, helping to safeguard them against the virus during the upcoming winter season.
Impact of Influenza on Young Children
Influenza poses serious health risks to young children, impacting both individual health and the broader healthcare system. Data from the 2025 influenza season, up to August 31, revealed that children aged 0 to 4 accounted for 13 percent of influenza notifications in NSW, while those aged 5 to 9 represented 16 percent. This year alone, emergency departments in NSW have recorded over 3,000 presentations for influenza-like illness among children under five, leading to more than 600 hospital admissions.
Minister for Health Ryan Park emphasized the importance of this new program, stating, “This new program will provide an accessible and convenient needle-free option for children and improve vaccination uptake ahead of the 2026 winter flu season.” He further noted that vaccination is the best protection against serious illness from influenza for individuals over six months of age.
Expert Opinions on the New Vaccine
The introduction of the FluMist vaccine is not just about convenience; it is also a strategic effort to alleviate pressure on emergency departments during peak influenza periods. “We know that EDs have been under pressure from winter illnesses,” Park added. “This innovative new vaccine method is about relieving pressure on our EDs next winter season.”
NSW Chief Health Officer Dr. Kerry Chant echoed these sentiments, highlighting the serious nature of influenza. “Influenza is a serious illness that can cause pneumonia and exacerbate chronic underlying medical conditions, requiring hospital admission,” she stated. “Even previously healthy children can experience severe complications from influenza, so it is great that we will be able to offer a new method of vaccination which can help support healthier communities during the winter months.”
The anticipated roll-out of the FluMist vaccine aims to provide parents with a viable option to protect their children against influenza, contributing to the overall health of the community. For further details on vaccination and immunisation programs in NSW, visit the official NSW Health website.
