WellSouth continues to boost free flu vaccination eligibility
Māori, Pacific peoples and former refugees in Otago and Southland aged 50 plus are now eligible for a free flu vaccine this year, after WellSouth Primary Health Network confirmed immunisation funding.
WellSouth has previously boosted free flu vaccination to provide for Māori and Pacific for the last 2 years after COVID funding ended. The funds covered Māori and Pacific aged 55-64 years before they became eligible for national funding. This year, in addition to lowering the eligible age, former refugees aged 50 plus are also eligible to receive a free flu vaccine.
The vaccine is available tomorrow, 1 April at local pharmacies, general practices and Hauora or Pacific healthcare provider clinics.
Continuing to close this age gap among these groups plays an important role in decreasing influenza hospitalisation, as outlined by the Recommendation for Seasonal Influenza Vaccine Composition for New Zealand for 2026 report, compiled by the WHO National Influenza Centre and Health Intelligence Team. The report states that Pacific peoples had the highest hospitalisation rate, followed by Māori:
“Influenza–associated SARI hospitalizations were higher in both young children (0–4 years) and elderly (≥65) compared to other age groups; also higher in Pacific Peoples and Māori ethnic groups compared to other ethnic groups.”
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.
The flu vaccine will be available on April 1.