February 27, 2017
Flu jab to offset Maori respiratory disease risk
The next season’s flu vaccines are now available, and Maori with existing respiratory conditions are being urged to get the jab.
Dr Matire Harwood says for that group, and for people over 65, the vaccine is free.
Maori have three to four times the rate of asthma than non-Maori and high levels of other conditions that affect breathing.
She says many people find excuses such as a fear of side effects, but the data shows the vaccine does protect people from serious illness.
"March is a really good time to come in and get your flu vaccination because the waiting rooms are a bit more quiet. We are not full of people unwell with flu'and colds and coughs and things like that we do see over the winter months," Dr Harwood says.
FULL INTERVIEW WITH MATIRE HARWOOD
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