The UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) has introduced the influenza vaccine in a nasal spray form for the first time, providing a needle-free alternative to the standard injectable option for the current flu season. The new delivery method aims to expand access to safe and effective immunization while strengthening protection against seasonal infectious diseases, particularly for high-risk groups. MOHAP confirmed that the nasal-spray vaccine meets all national regulatory requirements and offers an alternative approach designed to boost mucosal immunity. The spray targets the same annual influenza strains as the injectable vaccine but uses a live attenuated virus, making it suitable for healthy individuals aged 2 to 49, including children and those with a fear of injections. Dr. Nada Al Marzouqi, Director of Public Health and Prevention at MOHAP, described the nasal vaccine as an 'advanced additional option,' noting that it was first approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2003 for individuals aged 5-49 and extended to children in 2007. It is also approved by international authorities, including the FDA, the World Health Organization (WHO), and the European Medicines Agency (EMA). MOHAP emphasized that all vaccines offered in the UAE undergo continuous evaluation to meet the highest standards of safety and effectiveness and remain aligned with global scientific recommendations, ensuring the health and well-being of the community. 'While both vaccines target the same influenza strains, the nasal version uses a weakened live virus to simulate natural infection, stimulating strong mucosal and systemic immunity,' Dr. Al Marzouqi said. She added that offering multiple vaccination options allows individuals to choose the method best suited to their needs, ultimately enhancing community protection. The nasal-spray vaccine offers several advantages, she noted, including its needle-free format and its ability to mimic natural viral entry through the nose, which may help reduce transmission within communities. However, the vaccine is not recommended for certain groups, including: • Children under 2 years old • Adults aged 50 and above • Pregnant women • Individuals with immune disorders • Patients with specific chronic medical conditions • People in close contact with severely immunocompromised individuals. For these groups, physicians may recommend the traditional injectable flu vaccine. The ministry confirmed that the nasal-spray vaccine is already available at selected public and private hospitals and health centers, with plans to expand access through additional facilities in cooperation with strategic partners. The vaccine is registered in the UAE and monitored under national pharmacovigilance systems, with oversight coordinated through the country’s drug-safety framework.
