New intranasal, needle-free influenza vaccine now available in Singapore

Dr Leong Hoe Nam, an infectious disease specialist at Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital, said in the statement: “Removing the barrier of needles could significantly increase vaccination uptake across the population.

“When more people are protected, we can better safeguard our most vulnerable and ease the burden of serious flu complications on our healthcare system.”

Influenza viruses

, with seasonal peaks typically observed from May to August and December to March.

Severe cases can lead to pneumonia, hospitalisation or death, particularly among vulnerable groups, such as young children, the elderly and those with underlying health conditions.

Common side effects of the vaccine observed include runny or stuffy nose, sore throat in adults and mild fever in young children, AstraZeneca said.

It did not reveal the cost of the nasal vaccine or where it is available in its announcement.

The Straits Times has contacted the company and the Communicable Diseases Agency for more information.