More eligible for free flu vaccinations

MARTIN DE RUYTER/Nelson Mail

AT RISK: Pregnant Jacky Hill is given an influenza vaccination by Infection Control Nurse Barbara Gibson. This year, pregnant women will be offered the influenza vaccination for free.

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With winter comes flu, and some at-risk groups will be able to get the vaccine free from their doctor.

Those over 65, with respiratory conditions such as asthma, or with heart disease, diabetes or immune suppression are eligible for the free vaccine.

Nelson GP spokesman Dr Graham Loveridge said this year pregnant women and the very obese had been added to the free list.

"These people seem more vulnerable to serious complications of the H1N1 (swine flu) virus," he said.

"The free vaccine is wise spending by the Government, because it reduces the number of people off work, admitted to hospital, and who die of the flu."

This year's vaccine has three components: A California H1N1 (swine flu), A Perth and B Brisbane.

Dr Loveridge said the vaccine had been formulated on these viruses being the most likely to affect New Zealand this winter flu season.

"It is anticipated that there could be a resurgence of H1N1 as winter arrives," he said.

For those not eligible for the free vaccine, a flu jab will cost about $25 from general practices.

Dr Loveridge said many workplaces would pay for or supply flu vaccine for their workforce, because it reduced the number of staff off sick.

"GPs are supportive of this programme and would encourage everyone who is eligible for the funded vaccine to take the opportunity to get it over the next two months."

- © Fairfax NZ News