NSW Rolls Out Free Nasal Spray Flu Vaccine for Children Under 5

Parents in New South Wales now have a needle-free option to protect their young children from influenza. The Minns Labor Government has launched the NSW Nasal Spray Influenza Vaccination Program, providing free nasal spray flu vaccines to children aged two, three, and four years old.

This initiative aims to increase vaccination uptake following a record-breaking flu season and offers a painless alternative for families who find traditional injections unsettling.

A Needle-Free Alternative for Young Children

The new vaccine is administered via a simple spray—one dose in each nostril. Because it is gentle and painless, it removes the barrier of needle anxiety for both children and parents.

NSW Health Minister Ryan Park described the rollout as a “real win for parents,” noting that providing a needle-free alternative can produce it significantly easier to ensure children are protected before the winter peak.

Where to Access the Vaccine

The free nasal spray flu vaccine is available across NSW through the following providers:

• General Practitioners (GPs)
• Aboriginal Medical Services
• Community pharmacies

Why the Push for Increased Vaccination?

The rollout comes in response to a critical decline in vaccination rates and a severe influenza season in 2025. According to NSW Health data, only 24.4% of children under five were vaccinated in 2025. This falls well short of the 40% target established in the NSW Immunisation Strategy 2024–2028.

The Impact of the 2025 Flu Season

The urgency of this program is underscored by the statistics from 2025, which saw the highest number of influenza cases on record in NSW:

• Total Notifications: 186,768 cases across all age groups, a 15.8% increase over 2024 and a 79% jump compared to 2023.
• Pediatric Cases: More than 24,500 children under five contracted the flu.
• Emergency Care: There were over 4,600 emergency department presentations and more than 960 hospital admissions for children under five.
• Trend: Both presentations and admissions for children under five increased by more than 40% compared to 2024.

How NSW Compares to Other States

New South Wales joins several other Australian states in providing free flu treatments for young children to curb falling vaccination rates. While NSW and South Australia offer the treatment for children aged two to four inclusive, other states have different eligibility brackets:

• Queensland: Free for children aged two to five.
• Western Australia: Funded for children aged two to 11.

Expert Guidance on Flu Protection

While the nasal spray is a targeted tool for toddlers and preschoolers, health officials emphasize that the flu vaccine is recommended yearly for everyone aged six months and older. Getting vaccinated early is the best way to prevent serious illness and reduce the seasonal pressure on emergency departments.

Key Takeaways for Parents

• Eligibility: Free for NSW children aged 2, 3, and 4.
• Administration: Needle-free nasal spray (one spray per nostril).
• Goal: To reach a 40% vaccination target for children under five.
• Action: Parents are urged to book annual vaccinations now to prepare for the winter period.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the nasal spray as effective as the injection?

The nasal spray is a widely used alternative in the Northern Hemisphere and is designed to provide effective protection against influenza without the demand for a needle.

Who should get the flu vaccine?

The vaccine is recommended annually for everyone six months of age and older to offer the best protection against serious illness.

Where can I book the vaccine for my child?

You can contact your local GP, visit a community pharmacy, or reach out to an Aboriginal Medical Service to arrange the vaccination.