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Another Version Of The Flu Vaccine Might Return Next Season

A federal panel recommended bringing back FluMist, the nasal spray version of the flu vaccine.
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After taking a hiatus for the past two flu seasons, the nasal vaccine FluMist might be coming back.

A Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advisory panelvoted to recommend the nasal spray version for the upcoming 2018-19 flu season. The CDC is expected to take the committee's advice.

FluMist is a live, but weakened, influenza vaccine for healthy patients from ages 2 through 49 who aren't pregnant. It wasn't recommended for the 2016-17 flu season because at the time, it wasn't as effective as a regular shot. But data this time around was enough to convince the panel it's a viable option. It'll be available in the U.S. after the Food and Drug Administration approves the strain.

The CDC estimates this year's flu shot is 36 percent effective against both A and B virus strains, but experts still advise people to get the vaccine.

Additional reporting from Newsy affiliate CNN.