2026 Queensland Nasal Spray Flu Immunisation Program

The Program

On 16 September 2025, the Queensland Government announced the Queensland Nasal Spray Flu Immunisation Program (the program) for all children aged 2, 3 and 4 years in 2026.

This program will use FluMist, a nasally administered influenza vaccine, which is approved for use in Australia by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA).

FluMist will be made available for free across Queensland, in General Practices, pharmacies, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Controlled Health Services, and other community immunisation providers.

The program will commence in time for the 2026 influenza vaccine season.

The Vaccine

FluMist is a safe and effective, needle-free option for influenza vaccination.  It is given as a gentle nasal spray into both nostrils, making it convenient for children who may prefer to avoid needles.

Millions of doses of this vaccine have been given to children in the United Kingdom and the United States of America over the past decade. It is safe, well tolerated and provides good protection against influenza, including severe disease.

The needle-free delivery has helped to significantly improve influenza vaccine uptake among children, boosting protection for children, their families and the community.

All medicines, including vaccines can have side effects. Side effects from FluMist are usually mild and most commonly include a runny or blocked nose, headache or general tiredness. More serious side effects, such as anaphylaxis, are extremely rare.

Frequently Asked Questions for Consumers (PDF 151 kB) has been developed to assist consumers and immunisation providers by addressing common queries regarding the program.

Additional Program Information

Further details on the program, including consumer and provider resources, rollout timelines, and logistical arrangements (for immunisation providers), will be made available on this website leading up to the program’s commencement in 2026.