THE Western Australian Government has announced it will provide the FluMist intranasal influenza vaccine for children aged two to 12 years next year ahead of the 2026 flu season, a move welcomed by the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA).
The initiative aims to boost childhood vaccination rates and reduce flu-related illness and hospitalisations across the state, with PSA WA President Kristian Ray saying pharmacists are ready to support the rollout.
"This is a game-changer for children who experience needle anxiety," Ray said.
"Pharmacists are integral to improving immunisation rates and reducing pressure on our health system, and we look forward to working with the WA Government to deliver this important public health initiative."
Western Australia has now joined Queensland, New South Wales and South Australia in providing the needle-free vaccine for children, with the Royal Australian College of GPs calling for the Victorian and ACT governments to follow suit.
PSA National President Associate Professor Fei Sim said the WA Government's decision showed leadership and commitment to prioritise children's health, and called on all state and territory governments to legislate "so every child, no matter their postcode, can access free, convenient, and needle-free protection".
"We note thatFluMistis currently being considered by the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee for the National Immunisation Program," Assoc Prof Sim said.
"Federal funding will be critical for national consistency, but until then, states and territories must step up to protect childrenagainstthis vaccine-preventable disease."
The PSA will deliver a dedicatedwebinar, a quick reference guide, and learning module around implementing intranasal influenza vaccination this month. KB
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