Editorial: Jabs are keeping flu bugs at bay

It's official. Bugs and germs are on the decline.

After a horror winter last year, I decided to get the flu vaccination this year.

I'm pleased to say I haven't come down with full-blown flu so far this winter (touch wood).

It seems I'm not alone. New figures show flu rates have plummeted as increased vaccination, mild weather and better hygiene keep the spread of bugs at bay.

Experts say increased vaccination has played its part, with rates of take-up soaring 25 per cent on last year, with 1.25 million people vaccinated nationally.

The two main flu strains doing the rounds were included in this year's vaccine, and that likely contributed to the lower numbers falling ill.

This is definitely the case among people I know. The queue for the jab at the Rotorua Daily Post was longer this year than in previous years, and I've noticed more friends and family also got it.

Health professionals are cautiously optimistic about the results because the flu season usually peaks in the second half of August.

Admittedly, I was a little sceptical about the flu jab in previous years, having being told by one too many people they got really sick after having it. But if this good news continues, then I'll be lining up for another jab next year.