The new patch would deliver the vaccine through microscopic needles which dissolve after penetrating the outer layer of the skin and scientists say it would have the advantage of eliminating dangers posed by dirty needles in the developing world where conditions such as HIV and hepatitis B are prevalent. It also has the advantage of being able to be administered by someone with no medical training.

The scientists, from the US, who designed the 100-needle patch, say that the needles are made of biodegradable plastic and painlessly inoculate the patient before dissolving. Dr Sean Sullivan, who carried out the study, said: “We envisage people getting the patch in the mail or at a pharmacy and then self-administering it at home. Because the microneedles on the patch dissolve away into the skin, there would be no dangerous sharp needles left over."

Though it may be several years before it becomes a routine vaccination and replaces the flu jab, the scientists are confident it eventually will and that the technique could also be extended for use with other vaccines.”