Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is calling for a strong focus on flu vaccination in 2025 to help keep yourself, your community and those more likely to experience severe illness from the flu safe.

Vaccination is the primary tool for protection against influenza and other respiratory infections, particularly for those vulnerable groups and the health workforce.

”The health system is ready to respond to the usual surge in demand that comes in the winter months, but to avoid placing extra pressure on health services during the worst of the cold and flu season, people can help by taking action now,’ says Dr Sarah Clarke, Clinical Director for Primary and Community Care, Health NZ.

”Vaccinating against flu, stocking up on medication, preparing your home for the cold and damp and having a plan if you do become unwell, are all measures that are a critical part of winter preparedness.”

”If you have conditions like asthma, COPD or other chronic diseases, make sure you make a plan with your GP practice if you get sick and, most importantly, ensure you have enough medication to last you through the colder months,” says Dr Clarke.

There is often an increase in hospital admissions for respiratory infections and other illnesses in winter.

“Winter is something we prepare for every year as a health system. We know it will be busier than usual and if people need us, we are ready to respond as are our colleagues right across the sector,” says Dr Vanessa Thornton, ED Specialist Middlemore Hospital.

“Emergency departments are for acute situations, so if your illness is less acute, you may face a long wait. Those who needed urgent help should still come. Do not delay, call 111 for an ambulance or go to your nearest hospital ED or emergency clinic.“

If you do get sick this winter and can’t access a GP or don’t have anyone you can talk to, a Healthline nurse or paramedic is available 24/7 by calling 0800 611 116.

ESR’s Severe Acute Respiratory Illness surveillance had already identified 135 influenza-positive hospitalised patients to the end of April in the Auckland region, double the 65 cases admitted in the region for the same period last year.

”We are beginning to see serious influenza illness increase again. So now is a good time to protect yourself and loved ones by getting this year’s seasonal influenza vaccine, before flu circulates even more widely,” says Dr Sarah Jefferies, ESR Public Health Physician.