Waka Toa Ora

You can now get your flu vaccination

Influenza (flu) is a common viral infection that affects people of all ages. While it may be a mild disease for some, it can also cause serious illness and even lead to otherwise healthy people ending up in hospital.

Vaccination reduces the spread of illness to the most vulnerable in our whānau and communities, and is the safest way to protect yourself and your whānau from the flu.

FREE flu jabs are now available for:

• people aged 65 years and over;
• people aged 6 months and over who have a long-term medical condition like diabetes, asthma or a heart condition;
• pregnant people;
• tamariki aged 4 years and under who have been in hospital with breathing problems, or have a history of significant breathing problems;
• people with mental health conditions, including schizophrenia, major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder or schizoaffective disorder; and
• people who are currently being treated by specialists or are in hospital for mental health and addiction problems.

Find out more about the influenza vaccination. You can still benefit from a flu vaccine if you are not eligible for a free vaccination. It will cost $25 to $45.

Book your flu vaccination appointment online, or call 0800 28 29 26 to book over the phone (8.30am to 5pm Monday and Friday - except on public holidays).

Common side effects from the vaccine include mild pain, redness or swelling where the vaccine was given. These side effects usually last for a few days and go away without any treatment. Serious side effects, such as a severe allergic reaction, are rare. The vaccine does not contain live influenza viruses and cannot cause influenza.

Signs and symptoms to look out for

Flu symptoms come on suddenly and can include fever, chills, muscle aches, runny nose, cough, shortness of breath, and stomach upsets. It can keep you in bed for a week or more.

It is still important to stay away from others if you are sick with a cough, runny nose or fever - especially those who are most at risk, including pregnant people and newborn pēpi. Cover your mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing and wash your hands.

Get urgent medical advice if you or a whānau member have:

• a high fever that does not come down, especially if pregnant
• chills or severe shaking
• a rash
• difficulty breathing or chest pain;
• purple or bluish colour of the lips, skin, fingers or toes;
• severe headache or stiff neck;
• dislike of bright lights;
• fits, such as seizures or convulsions;
• signs of dehydration such as dizziness when standing;
• difficulty passing urine regularly.

Find out more about influenza (Health NZ).