Waitara clinic offers free flu jabs
An Immunisation Clinic will be popping up in the Maori Women’s Welfare League rooms (31
McLean St) in Waitara on Wednesday, May 3 to celebrate Immunisation Week, which is from May 1-7.
Taranaki DHB, Tui Ora Ltd, the Maori Women’s Welfare League and Pinnacle Midlands Health Network have teamed up to help raise awareness about the importance of immunisation in the community.
‘‘There will be nurses available to give free influenza vaccinations, childhood immunisations and pregnant women can also come along for their pregnancy immunisations for protection against influenza and whooping cough,’’ said Taranaki DHB Immunisation coordinator Mel Hurliman.
‘‘Immunisation is the best way to protect your family/wha¯ nau from the serious effects of some diseases and it’s recommended by health professionals,’’ Hurliman said.
The pop-up clinic will be open from 9am and anyone who is immunised on the day goes into the draw to win one of six $50 Pak ‘n’ Save vouchers.
’’It is very important that our community get prepared for the flu season,’’ said Medical Officer of Health Jonathan Jarman. ‘‘Influenza can be much more serious than a cold, and the symptoms can be more severe.’’
New Zealand was lucky last year and didn’t need to declare an influenza season, it would probably not be the case this time round, warns Dr Jarman. He also said that influenza could be more than just a bad cold.
‘‘The flu is an infectious disease caused by an influenza virus and can affect anyone no matter how fit, active and healthy they may be. Symptoms can come on suddenly and include fever, chills, sore throat, muscle aches, headache, runny nose, cough, stomach upsets and severe fatigue.
‘‘Pregnant women, newborn babies, the elderly, people with lowered immunity and those with certain long-term medical conditions such as asthma or heart problems are at higher risk of complications and hospitalisation.’’
’’Influenza vaccination is safe, effective and can be lifesaving for those who are the most vulnerable,’’ Jarman said.
‘‘For those who can’t make the pop-up clinic in Waitara, the influenza vaccination is available in the community,’’ said Hurliman. ‘‘If you are eligible, free flu vaccinations are available from your GP or medical centre. Privately funded and free flu vaccines are also available from some community pharmacies.’’
These pharmacies are providing influenza vaccinations free of charge to people over 65 years and pregnant mums: Mackay’s Pharmacy Stratford Moss, Rocard and Smith Chemist Stratford Eltham Pharmacy Robertson’s Pharmacies Hawera The Valley Pharmacy Waiwhakaiho Life Pharmacy Centre City New Plymouth.
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