Getting a flu shot? Skip the jab, take the spray this year

FOR THE FIRST TIME, UAE OFFERS A NEEDLE-FREE ALTERNATIVE: A NASAL SPRAY

- BY ABDULLA RASHEED

The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) has introduced the influenza vaccine in the form of a nasal spray at selected public and private health centres and hospitals — marking the first time it is offered as part of the UAE's approved vaccination options for the current season.

The initiative supports efforts to expand safe and effective immunisation choices, boost vaccine coverage rates and strengthen protection against seasonal infectious diseases, particularly among high-risk groups.

How does it work?

MOHAP announced that the newly introduced nasal spray vaccine has recently been registered in the UAE under approved regulatory standards. It uses a needle-free delivery method designed to boost mucosal immunity.