Scared of needles? Scientists have developed a patch which could replace traditional flu jabs
The patch, which looks like a plaster, is worn by patients for 20 minutes.
A patch has been developed which could replace traditional flu jabs.
The new technology could lead to people immunising themselves against flu at home and would reduce dangerous waste from hypodermic needles.
The patch looks like a plaster and is worn by patients for 20 minutes on the wrist while microneedles which contain the immunisation dissolve.
It was subject of a study published in the Lancet of 100 people in the United States with 70% preferring the patch to a traditional injection.
“Dissolvable microneedle patches could potentially simplify the delivery of influenza vaccines.
“The patch could… be safely applied by participants themselves, meaning we could envisage vaccination at home, in the work place, or even via mail distribution.
“These advantages could reduce the cost of the flu vaccine and potentially increase coverage.”
