The influenza virus spreads easily from person to person through saliva droplets that travel through the air after a cough or sneeze, according to Drugs.com. The Nasal Flu Mist vaccine is administered to prevent infection with the flu. It helps to build immunity to the virus by introducing a small amount of the live virus into the body. The body can then develop immunity to the disease by creating the antibodies needed to fight the small dose that was introduced. As with any vaccine, the Flu Mist has the potential for side effects.
Flu-Like Side Effects
Because the nasal Flu Mist vaccine contains the influenza virus, an individual may experience mild to moderate flu symptoms after administration. The symptoms could also be due to the actual flu virus, as the vaccine does not prevent the flu 100 percent of the time. Flu symptoms may include a low fever, chills, runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, cough, headache, fatigue, irritability, vomiting or muscle pain, according to Drugs.com. The CDC points out that adults do not usually experience a fever with the vaccine, but children may.
Signs of Allergy
Some individuals may have allergies to the Flu Mist ingredients and have a mild to severe allergic reaction. Signs of serious allergy require medical treatment and may include swelling of the face, lips, tongue, throat or airways; and trouble breathing.
Serious Side Effects
Drugs.com suggests medical attention if an individual experiences severe weakness or unusual sensations in the arms or legs, and/or high fever, chills, body aches or severe flu symptoms. These side effects can occur two to four weeks after receiving the Flu Mist nasal vaccine.
Contraindications
The CDC points out that there is the potential for serious complications for some individuals, especially those with other health concerns. The Flu Mist vaccine should not be given to children younger than 2 years of age or to adults over the age of 49. Individuals with a sensitivity to eggs, egg proteins, gelatin or arginine should also avoid the Flu Mist vaccine, according to the CDC. Other health issues that may cause complications with the Flu Mist vaccine include recurrent wheezing, Guillain-Barre syndrome, a weakened immune system, heart disease, kidney disease, pregnancy and diabetes.
