From cbc.ca

FluMist, the nasal spray version of the influenza vaccine, is still being recommended for children in Canada, even though pediatricians in the U.S. have been told it's ineffective.

The Public Health Agency of Canada says that for children without a medical reason that prevents them from receiving it, the influenza vaccine is recommended — either by nasal or needle.

Asked Thursday about the Canadian versus U.S. decision, Dr. Tom Frieden, director of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, said: "It is a surprising finding, and we really do hope that we can get an effective internasal vaccine or nasal spray back on the market and back available and recommended as soon as possible."

He rolled up his sleeve to receive his flu shot and encouraged others to do the same, saying the illness often doesn't get enough respect.

The U.S. has found that there was no convincing evidence that the nasal spray worked and that the jab did

Canada's National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) reviewed the evidence on FluMist but came to a different conclusion.

"FluMist nasal spray remains recommended, but is no longer preferentially recommended for children 2-17 years of age," a PHAC spokeswoman said in an email.

"FluMist will continue to be offered in most provincial and territorial public immunization programs across Canada."

At his pediatric practice in Toronto, Dr. Daniel Flanders said parents following media reports from the U.S. have been surprised to find out Canadian health authorities still recommend FluMist.

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