Hundreds of Māori and Pacific Island people in Southland and Otago who are aged 55 – 64 years old will once again be covered for the flu vaccine this year, after WellSouth Primary Health Network confirmed funding.

Persons aged 65 and over or people who have long-term medical conditions like diabetes, asthma, or a heart condition and/or long-term mental health conditions are already eligible for a free vaccination.

When government funding for free flu vaccines for 55–64-year-olds ended in 2023, before winter, WellSouth stepped in to ensure Māori and Pacific people aged 55 years and up in Otago and Southland are eligible for a free flu vaccine.

The flu vaccine is available now.

WellSouth clinical director Dr Carol Atmore said WellSouth was proud to close that critical age gap.

“Māori and Pacific people experience a greater illness burden than NZ European people and often live in multi-generational households, with older family members often caring for young children. This small service is one way to protect and support the whole whānau,” she said.

“This funding covers approximately 1,000 people in Otago and Southland, and we hope to build on the uptake from previous years, encouraging Pasifika and Māori aged 55 years plus to get the flu vaccine.

“You can get your flu jab at your general practice medical centre, a local pharmacy or get in touch with your kaupapa Māori provider or Pasifika community healthcare provider as they run vaccination clinics throughout autumn and winter.”

For those not eligible for a free flu vaccine it can cost between $25 and $45.

“Whether you are eligible for a free vaccine or not, I strongly encourage everyone to get their flu vaccine – and their Covid booster if they are eligible – to keep ahead of getting sick this winter and do their bit for the community,” Carol said.

PHOTO: Supplied