New flu shot option for those scared of needles

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Posted September 14, 2010 6:50 pm.

This article is more than 5 years old.

TORONTO (NEWS1130) – If it’s not the flu that scares you, but the needle they use to save you from getting sick, there’s some good news this flu season. The new option is called Intanza, a micro needle-used to administer the vaccine.

Dr. Jay Keystone, a professor of medicine at the University of Toronto, says it sort of looks like an EpiPen. “The needle is 1.5 millimeters, compared to the standard intramuscular vaccine which is 2.5 centimeters, an inch.”

Keystone says it’s a great option for those who cringe at the thought of an immunization. “So there’s no chance of a needle stick, very convenient, very easy to give.”

Intanza will be available at pharmacies across the country this fall.

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