The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) has launched a new influenza vaccine in a nasal spray form across selected public and private healthcare centres. This marks the first time the nasal spray option is included in the UAE’s official vaccination programme for the current flu season.
The rollout aims to broaden safe and effective immunisation choices, improve vaccine coverage and enhance protection against seasonal infections, especially among vulnerable groups.
What is the new nasal spray flu vaccine?
The newly registered nasal spray vaccine follows UAE’s approved regulatory standards and uses a needle-free delivery system to stimulate mucosal immunity. It covers the same influenza strains included in the annual injectable flu shot but uses live attenuated virus technology. It is suitable for healthy individuals aged 2 to 49 years, including people—especially children—who prefer to avoid injections.
Official approval status
The nasal spray flu vaccine is globally recognised and was initially approved by the US FDA in 2003 for ages 5 to 49, with later expansion to ages 2 to 5 in 2007. It is now registered in the UAE under the national regulatory framework, supporting the adoption of internationally recognised preventive tools.
How it differs from the injectable flu vaccine
While both vaccines protect against the same seasonal strains, they use different technologies:
Nasal spray: live attenuated (weakened) virus
Injectable vaccine: inactivated virus or viral components
Having more than one option helps address individual needs and strengthens overall community immunity.
Benefits of the nasal spray vaccine
MOHAP highlights several advantages:
Needle-free administration, ideal for children and individuals with injection anxiety
Stimulates a more natural immune response by mimicking real infection pathways
Helps reduce transmission within the community
Supports improved prevention of flu-related complications
Who should avoid the nasal spray vaccine?
The nasal spray is not recommended for:
Children younger than 2 years
Adults aged 50 and above
Pregnant women
People with compromised immune systems
Certain individuals with chronic medical conditions
Close contacts of people with severe immunodeficiency
In such cases, the injectable vaccine or an alternative advised by a healthcare provider is recommended.
Availability across UAE
The nasal spray vaccine is currently offered at selected public and private health facilities. MOHAP is collaborating with partners to broaden access and encourage uptake as part of the nation’s preventive health strategy.
Safety monitoring in the UAE
The vaccine is registered under UAE pharmaceutical regulations and is endorsed by global health authorities including the FDA, WHO and EMA. Ongoing monitoring through the national pharmacovigilance system ensures continued safety and effectiveness.
Key facts
Technology: Live attenuated virus
Delivery: Nasal spray, needle-free
Eligible group: Healthy individuals aged 2–49
Ideal for: Children and people with needle anxiety
Strain coverage: Same as injectable flu vaccine
Goal: Expand immunisation options and boost community protection
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