WDHB prompts flu vaccinations

WDHB encourages residents to get in quick for flu jabs to prevent sickness season taking its toll. Photo/ stored

It's that time of year again - soups are brewing, warm woollies are emerging and the temperature is dropping.

The Whanganui District Health Board (WDHB) has been prompting residents to get the flu vaccination to prevent sickness throughout the autumn and winter months.

WDHB infection prevention and control clinical nurse specialist, Jacquie Pennefather, said the doctors represent the highest number of staff vaccinated against the flu and nurses are not far beind.

"This shows how serious our clinical staff are about not catching the flu and passing it on to their family members, friends, colleagues and patients," she said.

Mrs Pennefather said Whanganui Hospital was on track to achieving its highest flu vaccination rate to date - a result she would love to see being matched out in the community.

"Autumn is the best time for people to get their annual flu shot or vaccination. Getting it then protects you before the flu season strikes and it's worth seeing if you or your family/whānau might qualify for a free flu shot," Mrs Pennefather said.

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Flu vaccinations are free from a doctor, nurse or qualified vaccinating pharmacist from March till the end of December, for those who are: aged 65 years or over; pregnant; under 65 years of age with long-term health conditions such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, respiratory disease, kidney disease and most cancers.

People who don't qualify for a free vaccination may still be able to get one free from their employer or alternatively pay the fee.

Mrs Pennefather said research showed a person can infect others with the flu virus even when they did not show symptoms themselves.

"So, by being immunised, you can help avoid passing the virus on to others close to you."

The influenza vaccine is a prescription medicine so people are advised to talk their doctor or nurse about the benefits and possible risks. To find out whether you qualify for free flu vaccination go to www.fightflu.co.nz or call 0800 IMMUNE 0800 466 863.