Flu jabs recommended

Hawke's Bay residents are being advised to get a flu vaccine in the next month, with working-age adults potentially most at risk of contracting a nasty bout of aches and pains.

The seasonal flu vaccine programme has been extended to the end of August because a mild start to winter means winter flu rates are still rising.

Ministry of Health figures show more than 45,440 flu vaccines have been distributed in Hawke's Bay District Health Board area this year, with 1.19 million being distributed nationwide since the programme launched on March 11.

Life Pharmacy Hastings pharmacist Hannah Ellis said flu vaccine season had been busy this year, particularly following an outbreak of flu in the region this year.

"There's definitely been a lot more interest in it."

The pharmacy offered flu vaccines for adults aged between 18-65 years old, and customers could choose the mini-needle vaccine Intanza, which was inserted under the skin instead of deep into the muscle. "For people who don't like needles that's a good way to go."

A virus expert is warning working-age adults between 20-49 are particularly at risk of contracting flu this year.

Those who are already unwell should seek advice from their doctor, nurse or Healthline (0800 611 116).