Influenza – or the flu – is more than just a bad cold. It can make even healthy people very unwell and, for some, lead to serious complications and hospitalisation.
Flu viruses circulate every year in New Zealand, particularly during the colder months. Because the strains of influenza can change from year to year, getting your flu vaccination each year is the best way to help protect yourself and those around you.
Why can the flu be serious?
Influenza usually comes on quickly and can cause symptoms such as:
- fever and chills
- cough
- sore throat
- headaches
- muscle or body aches
- tiredness and weakness.
While many people recover at home, influenza can sometimes cause serious complications, including pneumonia.
Older people, pregnant people, young children and those with certain long-term health conditions can be at greater risk of becoming seriously unwell.
Why do I need a flu vaccination every year?
Influenza viruses are constantly changing. Each year, the flu vaccine is updated to provide protection against the strains expected to be circulating.
Protection from vaccination also reduces over time, which is why an annual flu vaccination is recommended.
Who can get a free flu vaccination?
The 2026 flu vaccine is free for people who are at higher risk of becoming seriously unwell from influenza, including:
- people aged 65 years and over
- pregnant people
- people aged 6 months and over with certain long-term medical conditions
- children aged 4 years and under who have been hospitalised for respiratory illness, or have a history of significant respiratory illness
- people with certain mental health conditions
- people currently accessing secondary or tertiary mental health and addiction services.
If you are unsure whether you qualify for a free flu vaccination, contact us.
If you are not eligible for a free flu vaccination, you can still choose to be vaccinated for a fee.
Can I still get the flu after being vaccinated?
Yes. No vaccine provides complete protection and it is still possible to catch influenza after being vaccinated.
However, vaccination can reduce your risk of getting the flu and can help reduce the severity of illness if you do become infected.
Getting vaccinated also helps protect vulnerable people around you who may be more likely to experience serious complications from influenza.
Feeling unwell?
If you have flu-like symptoms, staying home can help prevent spreading the virus to others.
Rest, drink plenty of fluids and avoid close contact with other people while you are unwell.
If you are concerned about your symptoms, have difficulty breathing, are becoming increasingly unwell or are at greater risk of complications, call 03 208 9222 for advice.
You can also contact Healthline on 0800 611 116.
Protect yourself this flu season
Getting your annual flu vaccination is a simple way to help protect yourself, your whānau and the wider Gore community this winter.
Enrolled Gore Medical Centre patients can book their flu vaccination via the MyIndici portal. You can also call the team on 03 208 9222 to book or find out whether you are eligible for a free flu vaccination.
Sources: Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora and Pharmac.