Around for flu vaccines
immune response in people receiving the vaccine.
The stronger one is not a funded option, so everyone would need to pay extra for it. It was targeted towards the over 65 group, he said.
It was normal to be offered two different vaccines. Generally, only the “larger pharmacies” ordered the stronger one in and “most people just go with the funded option”, Scoggins said.
Franchise store Unichem charged $42 for a flu vaccine at its Wellington Central Pharmacy, greater than the $25 it charged at its east Christchurch store at Eastgate Shopping Centre. Its franchise store in Rolleston, southwest of Christchurch, charges $45. General practice (GP) charges also vary. Both Chemist Warehouse and Bargain Chemist are undercutting the competition by charging $21.99 and $22.99 respectively at all their stores across the country.
Consumer NZ had not received any complaints about flu vaccinations, but given the “significant” price variation “we would recommend shopping around so you get the best possible price in your area”, a spokesperson said.
Te Whatu Ora recommends everyone over 6 months old get immunised against flu every year because the virus changes often, meaning the vaccine has to be tweaked to match the new strains to ensure the best protection.
The WellSouth Primary Health Network decided to fund free flu vaccines this year for Māori and Pasifika people aged 55 to 64 to support about 1000 people in Southland and Otago who would not otherwise have been eligible.
Medical director Dr Carol Atmore said the network saw the value of providing flu vaccines for this group.
“We looked at the percentages and funding available and have made the decision to fund the shortfall and ensure that [the] high needs group is covered this year.
“Whether you are eligible for a free vaccine or not, I strongly encourage everyone to get their flu vaccine – and their Covid booster if they are eligible – to keep ahead of getting sick this winter.”
The flu vaccine is available from April 1 each year, before winter starts.