Cantabrians Recognise Value of Flu Vaccination

MEDIA RELEASE 15 May 2009

Cantabrians Recognise Value of Flu Vaccination

Canterbury has topped the country for the highest number of influenza vaccinations so far this year. The region reported 114,970 in the first 18 weeks of the four month influenza immunisation campaign.

Free influenza vaccinations are available until June 30 for people aged 65 and over and anyone with a long term condition such as diabetes, asthma, heart disease, stroke, respiratory disease, kidney disease and most cancers. The next highest number of vaccinations given so far this year was in Auckland with 111,500, followed by the Waitemata region with 78,530.

Canterbury’s 2008 figure was 109,920 for the same time period. More New Zealanders than ever have received the vaccination. The National Influenza Strategy Group (NISG) have confirmed that 807,539 doses of the vaccine have already been distributed nationwide, more than the total of 756,750 for the entire 2008 season (March – July). The figure also exceeds the highest ever total of 761,150 doses recorded in 2006.

Canterbury District Health Board virologist and NISG Spokesman Lance Jennings, says the record early uptake puts New Zealanders in a good position to face this coming winter.

Even before we knew about Influenza A (H1N1) in Mexico, vaccine uptake was already well ahead on previous years, he said.

By protecting yourself against other strains of influenza you are far less likely to be in weak health should you come in contact with the new virus.

Dr Jennings says people who are eligible for free vaccination should contact their General Practice as soon as possible to arrange an appointment. An extra 125,000 doses of seasonal influenza vaccine were ordered by the Ministry of Health to cater for the recent increase in demand.

This year’s influenza vaccine offers protection against an A Brisbane/10/2007(H3N2)-like strain, an A Brisbane/59/2007(H1N1)-like strain and a B /Florida/4/2006-like strain.

Meanwhile, people who have been in Mexico or North America in the last seven days should phone their General Practice if they have flu-like symptoms. For further information about influenza see Canterbury District Health Board’s influenza website www.fluinfo.org.nz

ENDS

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