Flu Vaccine for kid -- nasal spray or injection?

[rocketdodger]

Our pediatrician, and apparently the CDC, recommends nasal spray for kids 2-8. Apparently it is significantly more effective. Anyone with knowledge in the matter care to share some insight about that?

Furthermore, if the pediatrician doesn't have nasal spray available, but might very soon, how far into flu season should we wait to have the kid vaccinated? It seems like a risk vs reward decision and I don't have enough data to make an educated decision.

Last year my kid didn't get her injection until the start of november, although flu season has already began. Is it better to get an injection now or wait up to a few weeks for the nasal spray to be available? ( assuming only one vaccination per season is recommended ).

 

[pgwenthold]

I can imagine the flu mist is more effective because it is a live attenuated virus. However, my druthers would be to get whatever you can when it is most convenient for you to do it. If getting to an appt is a hassle, just schedule it in advance. If tomorrow is more convenient, then get the shot tomorrow.

 

[BenBurch]

Either will do at that age.