Kiwis Urged to Get Flu Protection Before Winter

Kiwis Urged to Get Flu Protection Before Winter

New Zealanders are urged to get immunised against seasonal influenza before winter as the first cases of this disease have already been confirmed in the country.

“People who are eligible for free immunisation should protect themselves as soon as possible as they are most vulnerable to complications from influenza,” urges National Influenza Strategy Group (NISG) spokesperson and virologist, Dr Lance Jennings.

Dr Jennings says that each year between 10-20 percent of New Zealanders get influenza.

“People need to be immunised before winter as it can take up to two weeks to develop immunity after immunisation.”

Dr Jennings says the annual seasonal influenza immunisation campaign is off to a flying start. Over 700,000 doses of influenza vaccine have been distributed to surgeries and clinics already.

In 2010, influenza vaccine distribution reached 1,046,000.

“This is an encouraging start but that figure still means many thousands of people are vulnerable to this potentially serious disease.”

The 2011 seasonal influenza vaccine provides protection against three strains of flu, including the Pandemic H1N1 (swine flu), seasonal H3N2 and B viruses, which are all expected to circulate in New Zealand this season.

“Most years the strains covered by the seasonal influenza vaccine change. This year is unusual in that the strains are the same as in 2010. People who were immunised last year, however, should still be immunised again this year because the immunity offered by influenza vaccines lessens over time - further immunisation is likely to offer better protection for the 2011 season.”

“Although influenza may be mild-to-moderate for most people, it can lead to serious complications and even death for others.”

Influenza immunisation is free for New Zealanders at high risk of complications -- people aged 65 and over, and anyone under 65 years of age with long-term health conditions such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, respiratory disease (including asthma), kidney disease and most cancers. Pregnant women are also eligible for free influenza immunisation as studies have shown that they are particularly susceptible to more severe outcomes from influenza.

Free immunisation is available to eligible people until July 31.

In response to the Christchurch earthquake, individuals residing in the Canterbury region who are under the age of 18 are also eligible for free influenza immunisation this season.

People who don’t qualify for free flu immunisation can get it through their general practice for a small charge. Many employers also offer free influenza immunisation to their employees.

For free health advice, call Healthline 0800 611 116. For advice about influenza immunisation visit www.fightflu.co.nz or text FLU to 515

ENDS

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