Flu Warning

Flu Warning

The influenza season is heading to New Zealand and the NZ College of Public Health Medicine is warning people to get vaccinated as soon as possible.

The call is timely as this is World Immunisation Awareness Week.

“In 2012/13, the United States experienced a particularly harsh influenza season and by February 2013 there had been 64 reported deaths in children.” says Dr Peters.

And she warns the disease may arrive even earlier this year than usual, as happened in the northern hemisphere.

“It’s important to be vaccinated as soon as possible as it takes two weeks for immunity to develop following vaccination,” says Dr Peters.

Influenza is a viral infection causing serious symptoms that make people very unwell. The symptoms include fever, generalised muscle aches, severe tiredness, headache, sore throat and cough. It can last well over a week and sufferers can take many more weeks to fully recover. The virus is mostly transmitted through the air from coughs and sneezes unknowingly inhaled by others in close proximity and by self-infecting after touching contaminated surfaces.

“This season’s vaccine includes the most predominant strains so being immunised is the best way to reduce the risk of catching the disease and reduce the severity of the illness if you do get it,” says Dr Peters.

The vaccine is free from a GP or nurse for New Zealanders at high risk of complications - pregnant women, people aged 65 and over, and for people of any age with long-term health conditions. If you are unsure whether you are eligible for a free immunisation, advice is available from your GP practice or by calling 0800 IMMUNE.

ends

© Scoop Media