SCDHB

With the annual flu season just around the corner, South Canterbury people are being urged to visit their GP for a flu shot as soon as possible to ensure they are protected.

The 2011 seasonal influenza vaccine is now available at all South Canterbury GP practices, says Primary & Community Services Immunisation Coordinator Deb Batchelor. The vaccine includes protection against three types of flu, including the Pandemic H1N1 Influenza 09 (swine flu), which is expected to be the predominant virus in New Zealand this season.

Swine flu is mild-to-moderate for most people, but it can lead to serious complications and even death for others.

The vaccine is free until July 31 for people who at high risk of complications from influenza: those age 65 years and over, and anyone under 65 with long-term health conditions such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, respiratory disease (including asthma), kidney disease, most cancers, and conditions which suppress the immune system.

In addition, subsidised influenza immunisation is available for pregnant women. Pregnant women have been included because experience from previous seasonal flu outbreaks and the 2009/10 pandemic shows they are at greater risk from complications associated with the flu.

People who don't qualify for a free flu vaccine can get it through their general practice for a small charge. Many employers also offer free immunisation to their employees.

Ms Batchelor says people need to be immunised as soon as possible before winter, as it can take up to two weeks to develop immunity after vaccination.

"The best protection against seasonal influenza is an annual flu shot," says Ms Batchelor. "Even if you were vaccinated last year, a further vaccination is likely to offer better protection for the 2011 season."

Influenza can affect anyone, regardless of how fit, active or healthy they are.

"While your state of health affects how likely you are to get an infection, the influenza virus doesn't care how fit, active or healthy you are. It's a contagious virus that anyone can catch. And if you care for, or interact with people who are at high risk from the flu, you are helping to protect them by getting a shot yourself," says Ms Batchelor.

For free health advice, call Healthline 0800 611 116.  For advice about influenza immunisation visit www.fightflu.co.nz or text FLU to 515.

For more information contact:

Arlene Goss

Communications Manager, South Canterbury District Health Board

Private Bag 911, Timaru

Ph: 03 687 2395, Fax: 03 688 0238, Mobile:  027 276 4259