First four- strain influenza vaccine available this season

The first Food and Drug Administration-approved vaccine that prevents all four main strains of the influenza virus will be available this month, according to manufacturer MedImmune.

The vaccine, which is called FluMist, is a nasal spray that protects against main strains of the influenza A virus and the influenza B virus.

MedImmune began to ship the vaccine for distribution to health-care practices, retail pharmacies and schools nationwide on Aug. 2, 2012, according to a company news release.

As we first reported in March 2012, some medical experts believe that FluMist could become a popular vaccine for children because children are more prone to influenza B strains than are adults who have been exposed to the strains.

Individuals who want to receive the FluMist vaccine should contact their health-care provider to verify that the vaccine is available.