The NSW Government has introduced a new needle-free flu vaccination program for young children, aiming to boost protection after one of the worst flu seasons on record.
Under the initiative, children aged 2 to 4 years can now receive a free nasal spray influenza vaccine across New South Wales. Available through GPs, community pharmacies and Aboriginal Medical Services, the vaccine offers a gentle and painless alternative to traditional injections.
The move comes after vaccination rates among young children fell below targets, with only 24.4 per cent of children under five vaccinated in 2025, well short of the 40 per cent goal set under the state’s immunisation strategy.
Health authorities are particularly concerned following last year’s severe flu season, which saw more than 24,500 flu cases in children under five, along with a sharp rise in hospital visits and admissions. These figures highlight the urgent need to improve early protection for vulnerable age groups.
NSW Health Minister Ryan Park said the needle-free option is expected to make vaccinations easier for families, especially for children who may fear injections. The goal is to increase uptake and reduce the risk of serious illness during the winter months.
The nasal spray is administered quickly, with a simple spray into each nostril, making it a more comfortable experience for young patients. Health experts believe this approach could remove one of the biggest barriers to childhood vaccination – fear of needles.
Alongside the nasal spray rollout, the standard flu vaccine injection remains available for free under the National Immunisation Program for eligible groups, including young children, pregnant women, older adults and people with underlying health conditions.
Authorities are urging families to get vaccinated early, before flu cases begin to rise again. Early protection not only reduces individual risk but also helps ease pressure on hospitals and emergency departments during peak season.
Health officials are also reminding the community to follow simple precautions such as staying home when sick, practising good hygiene and avoiding crowded spaces when possible. These measures, combined with vaccination, remain the most effective way to limit the spread of influenza.
As NSW prepares for the upcoming winter, the rollout of this new nasal spray vaccine represents a significant step towards improving public health outcomes – particularly for young children who are among the most vulnerable to flu-related complications.
