Flu vaccinations encouraged

New Zealanders are being encouraged to get vaccinated against flu before the annual epidemic sets in. It follows an announcement by the World Health Organisation, which says the three most common influenza viruses circulating globally have changed significantly.

Virologist Dr Lance Jennings says this year's vaccination may not prevent a new strain of the flu, which was recently discovered in the United States. But he says it is still better to get the jab than not.

The New Zealand vaccination campaign begins in March. The flu epidemic usually peaks in June or July.

- NEWSTALK ZB