As New Zealand approaches the 2025 flu season, commencing on April 1st and running through December 31st, health authorities are emphasising the importance of vaccination to safeguard public health.
Understanding Influenza in 2025
Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a contagious respiratory illness that can lead to severe health complications, hospitalisations, and even fatalities, particularly among vulnerable populations. Predicting the severity of each flu season is challenging; despite high case numbers in regions like the United States, New Zealand's flu season can vary due to multiple factors.
Benefits of the Flu Vaccination
Annual flu vaccinations are recommended for everyone over six months old, as they provide protection against the predominant circulating influenza strains. Even if vaccination does not completely prevent infection, it can reduce the severity of illness, decrease the likelihood of hospitalisation, and lower the risk of flu-related complications. For pregnant individuals, the vaccine not only protects the mother but also offers immunity to the baby, reducing risks such as premature birth and low birthweight.
Vaccine Availability and Eligibility
In New Zealand, the flu vaccine is free for certain high-risk groups, including:
People aged 65 years and over.Health Information and Services
Pregnant individuals.
Children aged 4 years and under who have been hospitalized for respiratory illness or have a history of significant respiratory illness.
Individuals with long-term medical conditions such as diabetes, asthma, or heart disease.
People with mental health conditions, including schizophrenia, major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, or schizoaffective disorder.
For those not eligible for a free vaccine, it is still available for purchase, typically costing around $45. Appointments can be booked through general practitioners, and many pharmacies offer walk-in vaccinations for individuals aged three and above.
Economic and Community Impact
Beyond individual health benefits, widespread vaccination has economic advantages. A study evaluating the costs and benefits of influenza vaccination for New Zealanders aged 65 and over found that vaccination is cost-effective, reducing healthcare expenses associated with treating influenza-related complications. Moreover, high vaccination rates contribute to community immunity, protecting those who are unable to be vaccinated and reducing the overall burden on the healthcare system.
Conclusion
As the 2025 flu season unfolds, getting vaccinated remains one of the most effective measures to protect oneself and the broader community from influenza. Consult with healthcare providers to determine eligibility and access vaccination services promptly. By prioritising immunisation, New Zealanders can collectively mitigate the impact of the flu season and promote a healthier society.
When is the optimal time to get the flu shot?
Flu season lasts from April with cases in the New Zealand peaking from June-July. That’s why the NZ Public Health recommends that people get their flu vaccine by the end of May, since it takes the immune system about two weeks to rev up its maximum response to the vaccine. This means generating sufficient immune cells—including antibodies—against the virus. "The perfect time to get vaccinated against flu is right before cases start to take off," says Dr. Kawsar Talaat, associate professor in international health at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.
