For the first time, many people in the United States who want to protect themselves against the flu this respiratory virus season can order a vaccine to give themselves at home.

FluMist has been approved since 2003, but, until last year, only for administration by a healthcare practitioner. The new nod allows adults up to 49 years old to use the nasal spray themselves, while parents and caregivers can give it to children aged 2 to 17.