In June, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) released a statement that the live attenuated influenza vaccine (LAIV), commonly known as the nasal spray flu vaccine, should not be administered during the 2016-17 flu season due to concerns about how well it works in preventing those vaccinated from getting the flu.
The CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) made the recommendation based on data that demonstrated LAIV’s low effectiveness in preventing the flu from 2013-2016. Studies found that the LAIV given to children ages 2 to 17 during the 2015-2016 flu season showed an effectiveness rate against the virus of less than three percent. According to the CDC statement, this low percentage demonstrated that no protective benefit could be measured. On the contrary, flu shots were found to be 63% effective against the flu virus in the same age group.
It is still recommended that everyone six months of age or older who can get a flu shot does so. Other additional steps can be taken to lower the risk of flu exposure including washing hands to prevent the spread of germs.
