This winter (2021/2022) the national immunisation committee (NIAC) have recommended that all children between ages 2 and 17yrs receive the flu(influenza) vaccine. The nasal flu vaccine (Fluenz Tetra) is the vaccine of choice for this age group.

Q1. Can children with egg allergy receive the nasal flu vaccine? 

Yes. Children with Egg allergy can safely receive the nasal flu vaccine from their GP or pharmacist even if they have experienced an anaphylactic reaction to egg.

(In the unlikely event that a child required admission to an intensive care unit for artificial ventilation because of an allergic reaction to egg then your child case should be discussed with the allergy team before receiving the vaccine). 

Q2. Can children with other food allergies receive the nasal flu vaccine?

Yes. Children with all other food allergies can also safely receive this vaccine.

Q3. Is there latex in the nasal flu vaccine?

No. There is no latex in the nasal flu vaccine.

Q4. Can a child who has had an allergic reaction to another vaccine receive the nasal flu vaccine?

Anaphylaxis to vaccines is very rare. If your child has had a confirmed anaphylactic reaction to a previous vaccine then your GP should speak to an allergy specialist before administering the nasal flu vaccine.

Q5. Can all asthmatic children receive the nasal flu vaccine?

Children with asthma can safely receive the nasal flu vaccine. However, if

  1. They have had increased wheezing and needed their reliever (blue) inhaler in the previous 72hrs, their vaccine should be delayed until their symptoms have settled.
  2. They take high doses of oral steroids (prednisolone) you should check with their specialist before they receive the vaccine.
  3. If they have had an ICU admission for asthma you should also check with their specialist before they receive the vaccine.

Some children cannot receive the nasal flu vaccine for other non-allergic reasons, such as certain types of immunosuppression. Please check the HSE site for more information regarding this.

Please note that the CHI Allergy Departments are only accepting inquiries regarding COVID-19 Vaccines from GPs.