FDA OKs Needle-Free Flu Vaccine Injector

PharmaJet and flu vaccine maker bioCSL say the FDA approved their needle-free injector with Afluria vaccine combination product in people 18 to 64 years old. The PharmaJet Stratis 0.5ml is the first needle-free delivery system approved by the FDA for administering an influenza vaccine.

Millions of people forego annual flu vaccines due to fear of needles, while needlestick injuries pose a serious risk to the healthcare workers who administer the vaccinations, says PharmaJet CEO Ron Lowy.

According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, the incidence of needlestick injury is about 3.62 per 100,000 vaccinations among retail pharmacists alone. The PharmaJet’s needle-free technology eliminates these injuries and the potential for cross-contamination, while reducing sharps waste and disposal costs, the Golden, Colo., devicemaker says.

The PharmaJet system consists of a reusable injector that delivers a single-dose of vaccine with a disposable cartridge. No external power source is required, according to the company.

PharmaJet co-founder Heather Potters told Device Daily Bulletin that the device will be available in the U.S. during this fall’s influenza season, in select public health, pharmacy and other healthcare delivery venues. — Kellen Owings

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