Local primary health organisation WellSouth is filling a gap for Māori and Pasifika aged 55-64 years old to get a free flu vaccine this winter.

With the arrival of the flu season, the best defence against flu is to get a yearly flu vaccine and follow hygiene practices such as handwashing and covering your nose and mouth when you sneeze or cough. 

There are many people in Central who are eligible for a free flu vaccine including everyone over 65, and those with long-term medical conditions like diabetes, asthma, a heart condition and long-term mental health conditions.

Last winter, Māori and Pasifika aged 55-64 years old were funded to receive a free vaccine by the Ministry of Health, using a one-off Covid-19 funding stream. 

That funding has ended, and with this, many hundreds of 55-64 year old Māori and Pasifika were no longer covered.

WellSouth clinical director Dr Carol Atmore said WellSouth sees the value of providing flu vaccines for all Māori and Pacific people in our district, and has decided to fund this locally.

“Given Māori and Pacific people experience a greater illness burden at a younger age than NZ European people, and often live in multi-generational households, this was seen as a great targeted service to promote health in this population group.

“We looked at the percentages and funding available and have made the decision to fund the shortfall and ensure that high needs group is covered this year.”

“This supports approximately 1000 people and means that all 55–64 year old Māori and Pasifika in Otago and Southland are now able to get a fully funded flu vaccine,” Carol said.

You can get your vaccine at your general practice or local pharmacy. See the Health button for information for details. 

Another available alternative in Central Otago is Uruuruwhenua Health, on freephone 0800485111.

Uruuruwhenua Hauora manukura hauora and nurse Lana John said to protect vulnerable whānau, especially elderly kaumātua and those with underlying illnesses from the effects of flu, where cost and access may be a barrier, they are offering whānau free flu vaccinations, alongside all nurse clinics and by arrangement.

Find additional information on the flu vaccine on the Te Whatu Ora (Health New Zealand) webpage.