Flu vaccine update

We received an initial supply of flu vaccines last week, which was small, and has already been given to some of our high risk patients.

We have been advised by the Ministry of Health that we will receive more vaccines by the middle of April. Additional vaccine supplies have been requested by Ministry of Health.

When the vaccines do come back into stock, we will be looking to vaccinate as many of our patients as possible in a short period of time and will be prioritising our high risk patients as a matter of urgency. High risk patients are those over 65 years and those in high risk groups (people with heart disease, lung disease, diabetes, immunocompromised, pregnancy etc).

Due to the current Level 4 lockdown, flu vaccinations will be done outside in the car park this year. Please bring an adult (from your household) with you when you come for your flu vaccine and you will only have to wait 5 minutes after your vaccination and then you can go home. If you do not have an adult to come with you will have to wait the usual 20 minutes.

If you are unwell with viral symptoms, you MUST STAY AT HOME until you are well before coming for your flu vaccine.

You will be contacted when we are ready to begin vaccinating so please do not call to enquire before this time. We are unable to run a waiting list as we are focusing our resources to the areas they are needed most during this challenging time.

We understand, given the current circumstances that there are lots of people who are very keen to get vaccinated against the flu. Please remember, flu season generally doesn’t start until May/June. By this time, we hope to have vaccinated as many as possible.

In the interim, you can reduce your risk of influenza and other viral infections by staying at home, only going out for essentials, and continuing with good hand washing hygiene.