Flu Vaccination

The influenza virus infects your nose, throat and lungs. The flu is normally worse than a cold. Some people get very sick – influenza causes deaths every year. 

Symptoms of influenza come on suddenly and can include fever, chills, muscle aches, runny nose, cough and stomach upsets.

The flu spreads quickly from person to person through touch and through the air. While you’re unwell, stay away from work or school. Look after yourself and your family – rest and fluids are especially important.

Older people, young children, pregnant women, and people with certain medical conditions are at a higher risk of developing serious complications from influenza, such as pneumonia. If you’re at higher risk, it is important to see your doctor early, to find out if you need treatment.

It is also important to seek medical advice early if you are concerned, especially if there are any danger signs and even if you have been seen before. Other serious conditions can also look like the flu, including meningococcal disease.

Is the seasonal influenza vaccine safe?

• The technology to make influenza vaccines has been in use for 60 years, it has an excellent safety record.

How has the seasonal influenza vaccine been tested?

• It has been trialled clinically.

Is it true that getting the influenza vaccination puts you at risk of getting influenza?

• No. Influenza immunisation cannot cause influenza because the seasonal influenza vaccine contains no live viruses.

The last time I got vaccinated for seasonal influenza I came down with a cold/flu the next day. Was this caused by the vaccine?

• No. The seasonal influenza vaccines have been made from influenza viruses that have been concentrated, inactivated and then broken apart. It cannot cause influenza as the vaccine does not contain any live viruses.

For more information about the influenza vaccine visit the Ministry of Health Website