Flu Vaccine

The flu virus is a highly contagious virus that frequently changes, requiring annual vaccinations to protect against serious illness from the latest strains. Even if you’re fit and healthy, without a vaccination the flu can make you really unwell and more likely that you could pass the virus on to vulnerable people around you, such as older adults, pregnant people and your tamariki (children). Protect yourself and your whanau, by getting your flu vaccine early.

We have dedicated vaccinators working in our clinics, so you don’t have to wait. We also have pop up flu vaccine clinics at five key locations, every Friday and Saturday throughout April and May, making it even easier to get vaccinated quickly.

Book or walk in today.

FREE flu vaccines are available for those who meet the eligibility criteria:

• Children aged 6 months – 12 years,inclusive (enrolled patients only)
• Maori/Pacific aged 55 years and over (enrolled patients only)
• People aged 65 years and over
• Pregnant people
• People who have a long-term medical condition like diabetes, asthma, or a heart condition (aged 6 months and older)
• People who are currently accessing secondary or tertiary mental health and addiction services, or have a mental health condition including schizophrenia, major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, or schizoaffective disorder

For those who do not meet funding criteria, flu vaccines cost just $30.

Covid Vaccines are also now available at Local Doctors Otara UC, Dawson Rd, Browns Rd, Mt Roskill, Glen Innes & Mangere Town Centre, and can be given at the same time.

When should I get a flu vaccine

The sooner the better. The best time to get the flu vaccine is in April. This will ensure you have the maximum protection for the peak flu season which starts in July. 

How long does it take?

The vaccine takes less than 1 minute. You will need to wait for about 20 minutes if it's your first vaccine, or 5 minutes if you've had one before to ensure no severe side effects occur. If you’ve had previous allergies to the vaccine, you may be asked to stay longer.

Helpful flu vaccination resources

• Influenza – Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora
• Pharmac funding criteria