Children aged 2 to 4 in NSW can now receive a free influenza vaccine delivered as a nasal spray.
Under the NSW Nasal Spray Influenza Vaccination Program, a free nasal spray flu vaccine is available for children aged 2, 3 and 4 years across NSW through GPs, Aboriginal Medical Services and community pharmacies.
The vaccine is administered as a spray into the nose—one spray in each nostril—and is gentle, painless and needle-free.
Last year’s extended flu season saw more than 24,500 cases of influenza (flu) in children under 5 in NSW.
“If you have a child who is terrified of, or unable to receive needle injections, then this option is ideal,” Mr Provest said.
In 2025, there were more than 4,600 presentations in children under 5 for influenza-like-illness to emergency departments in NSW and more than 960 admissions in children under 5 to hospitals. Compared to 2024, this is a more than 40 per cent increase in both presentations and admissions.
“The influenza vaccine offers the best protection against serious illness, and I urge everyone in NSW to safeguard themselves and their families this winter,” Mr Provest said.