UAE rolls out nasal spray flu vaccine: Who is eligible and who should avoid it

The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) has introduced the influenza vaccine in the form of a nasal spray at selected public and private health centres and hospitals — marking the first time it is offered as part of the UAE’s approved vaccination options for the current season.

The initiative supports efforts to expand safe and effective immunisation choices, boost vaccine coverage rates and strengthen protection against seasonal infectious diseases, particularly among high-risk groups.

MOHAP announced that the newly introduced nasal spray vaccine has recently been registered in the UAE under approved regulatory standards. It uses a needle-free delivery method designed to boost mucosal immunity.

The spray covers the same strains approved annually for the injectable vaccine but uses live attenuated (weakened) virus technology. It is suitable for healthy individuals aged 2 to 49, including children and people who fear injections.

Yes. The nasal spray influenza vaccine was first approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2003 for those aged 5 to 49, with approval expanded to children aged 2 to 5 in 2007.

It is now registered in the UAE under the national regulatory framework, reflecting the Ministry’s commitment to adopting internationally recognised preventive technologies and ensuring readiness for each influenza season.

According to the Ministry, both vaccines cover the same annual strains.
However:

Offering multiple options allows the UAE to cater to different groups and strengthen overall community immunity.

The Ministry highlighted key advantages:

The primary goal is to improve prevention and reduce influenza-related complications in the community.

MOHAP listed six groups prohibited from receiving the spray:

In these cases, the injectable vaccine — or another option recommended by a physician — is preferred.

MOHAP confirmed that the vaccine is available at selected public and private health facilities. The Ministry is working with partners to expand access and encourage uptake as part of the UAE’s preventive health strategy.

Yes. The vaccine is officially registered and overseen under UAE pharmaceutical regulations. It is also approved by global health bodies including the FDA, World Health Organization (WHO) and European Medicines Agency (EMA).

The UAE continues to monitor side effects and assess effectiveness through its pharmacovigilance system to ensure the highest standards of safety and quality.