Listen Now: 
The Government will fund a quarter of a million more free flu vaccines for this year’s winter campaign to protect vulnerable communities and the health system.
Health Minister Andrew Little says up to two million New Zealanders will be eligible for a free flu vaccination.
He says opening the borders means more seasonal flu is likely.
Vaccinating more people from the flu will save lives and preserve capacity in hospitals.
The flu vaccine can be safely administered at the same time as the COVID-19 vaccine – whether that be a booster shot or paediatric vaccine.
The Ministry of Health and Pharmac are currently updating the eligibility criteria with a focus on reducing the age of eligibility for at-risk populations, and potentially including a wider range of young people.
Currently, flu vaccinations are free for pregnant women, over 65s, and people who have certain medical conditions including those with cancer and diabetes.
RELATED NEWS
