Flu Vaccinations Available from 1 April

Flu season is almost here, and getting your annual flu vaccine is one of the best ways to protect yourself and the people around you. Influenza can be serious, particularly for older adults, young children, pregnant people, and those with underlying health conditions. A simple vaccine each year helps reduce the risk of severe illness and helps protect the wider community.

Our flu vaccination appointment books are now open. Patients can call the clinic to book their flu vaccination from 1 April onwards. We encourage people to book early so they can be protected before flu begins circulating widely in the community.

The flu vaccine is free for patients who meet the funded eligibility criteria, including:

• People aged 65 years and over
• Pregnant people (any trimester)
• People under 65 with certain long-term health conditions such as cardiovascular disease, respiratory disease, autoimmune conditions, diabetes, chronic kidney disease, or cancer
• Children under 4 years old who have been hospitalised for respiratory illness or have a history of significant respiratory disease

For the full list of funded eligibility criteria, please visit the Immunisation Advisory Centre website:
https://immune.org.nz

If you are not eligible for the funded vaccine, the flu vaccination is still available for a small fee. Our reception team can advise you of the cost when you book.

The flu vaccine is recommended for everyone aged six months and older, and getting vaccinated each year is the best protection as flu strains change over time.

To book your flu vaccination appointment with our nursing team, please call Newtown Medical Centre on 04 389 9999.

Protect yourself, protect your whānau, and help reduce the spread of flu in our community this winter.