There is a definite chill in the air as winter approaches and, with it, the winter ills and viruses that too often circulate. 

Influenza (aka “the flu”) is a common viral infection that affects people of all ages. While it may be a mild disease for some, it can cause serious illness and even lead to admission to hospital in otherwise healthy people. 

For those who say they don’t get the flu or cope well with it if they do, I often say that is a privileged position not afforded to all. Getting a flu vaccination is our combined community’s effort to protect everyone, especially those vulnerable to serious health complications from having the flu.

Getting a flu vaccination is the best protection from influenza and has added benefits:

• Even if you catch the flu after having a vaccination, your symptoms are likely to be milder, you are likely to need fewer sick days and you're less likely to pass it onto others.
• If you're pregnant, it protects you and your baby against the flu.
• By getting the vaccine, you will help protect vulnerable people such as very young children, older adults and people with long-term health conditions.

You need a flu vaccine every year because each year it’s made to match the different strains of flu virus likely to be in Aotearoa/New Zealand. Some strains are the same for more than a year, but it's still recommended that you have the vaccine each year because the protection it provides diminishes over time.

The flu vaccine is free for higher-risk people including those aged over 65, and for those with certain health conditions. For others, the vaccine may be available free through your workplace, or you can pay for one at your local medical centre or pharmacy. Because there are a few different vaccine options available this year, discuss what is best for you and your whānau with your health professional.

Side effects and reactions

Like most medicines, vaccines can sometimes cause reactions. Serious reactions are extremely rare while mild reactions are normal and to be expected. It shows that your immune system is responding to the vaccine. Reactions usually occur within a few hours or days from when the vaccine is administered. If you are concerned about any previous reactions or side effects, you should discuss these with your health professional before having a flu vaccination. 

Sources and further reading: immunise.health.nz/about-vaccines; healthify.nz/common-questions; info.health.nz/immunisations