CDC Recommends Live Attenuated Flu Vaccine for 2018–19

By Kelly Young

Edited by André Sofair, MD, MPH

The CDC recommends the live attenuated influenza vaccine (LAIV4; FluMist Quadrivalent) as one of several options for the upcoming flu season. The recommendations are published in MMWR.

LAIV4 wasn't recommended for the prior two seasons because of its poor effectiveness against the H1N1 pandemic virus in children. The new LAIV4 vaccine uses a different H1N1 pandemic virus.

Among the other changes for flu vaccines this year:

• People with a history of egg allergy may receive any of the age-appropriate influenza vaccines.

• The Afluria Quadrivalent (inactivated influenza vaccine; IIV4) may now be given to those 5 years and up, instead of 18 and up.

• Fluarix Quadrivalent (IIV4) may be administered to patients aged 6 months and up, instead of just 3 years and up.

Once again, vaccination is recommended for all people aged 6 months and up who don't have contraindications. People at risk for influenza complications (young children, adults aged 50 and older, those with chronic conditions) should be prioritized for vaccination. No particular vaccine is recommended over others.