PITTSBURGH,None — The pharmacist put it this way. "It's needle-free, but it's not pain free."
The new injections are designed for people who get anxious when they see needles. They are available at Giant Eagle pharmacies and that is where I talked to a half-dozen people getting their flu shots. They all told me needle-free method was less painful than a traditional shot.
The syringe is spring-loaded, so when the pharmacist hits a button a burst of air shoots the medication into the muscle. It is so fast the vaccine penetrates the skin in less than one third of a second.
Nancy Iacuri described what it felt like. "I felt pressure and then a tiny pinch and that was it."
Needle-free flu shots are available at Giant Eagle pharmacies for $25 and you don't need an appointment as long as a pharmacist is available.
"Folks tell us, with needle phobias, they tend to prefer that type of needle-free injection," said Rob Borella, a Giant Eagle spokesman.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends everyone get a flu shot this year, since there's no shortage of vaccine.
The CDC especially wants high-risk groups vaccinated including, pregnant women, children, child care and health care workers and people with underlying medical conditions.
The vaccine protects against three strains of flu, including H1N1, better known as the swine flu.
Janice Danowski's doctor recommend she get a flu shot and she's glad she did it the needle-free way.
"It just gave a little pinch, that's all," said Danowksi.
Pneumonia shots can also be given needle-free by Giant Eagle pharmacists.
In Pennsylvania, you have to be 18 to get a flu shot from a pharmacist, but in Ohio pharmacists can give needle-free flu shots to children as well as adults.
Again, at Giant Eagle pharmacies you don't need an appointment. Walk-ins are welcome.