Flu jabs for volunteers

VACCINE: Cook Street Pharmacy's Anthony Roberts delivers a flu shot to Just Zilch volunteer Laura Sait. PHOTO: SUPPLIED

Despite popular thinking, the flu vaccine does not give you the flu.

This was the message from Cook St Pharmacy's Anthony Roberts, who recently donated flu shots to volunteers at Just Zilch.

With around 15 volunteers expected to take up the opportunity, Mr Roberts said he offered the shots in a bid to support the organisation.

"We understand and like the idea of Just Zilch - we agree with their principles and certainly support them. If we can't help by donating food we thought well why not supply flu shots to keep their volunteers healthy."

Just Zilch director Rebecca Culver said the volunteers visited the pharmacy to receive their shots.

"For me it was the first time I've had the flu vaccine and this year I decided to do it because it was offered. In reality we are working with the public so it's a good idea to protect ourselves and them."

She said the flu had never been an issue for her but felt she needed to think of others too. Mr Roberts said although an individual may not be susceptible to the flu, another person is.

"You may carry the strain and be fine but then you could pass this on to someone who is susceptible ... so a shot is a good thing."

He said the uptake of flu shots this year had just started.

"There are free vaccines available to some people through their general practitioner but people aren't getting in for two or three weeks. So they come in here and although some may qualify for a subsidy, they pay to get it done."

He said the Waikato region had extended their scheme so patients who qualified for a free vaccine could receive them through local pharmacies.

"This one has gone really well and does address the convenience issue."

Ms Culver said it was worthwhile doing your own research before getting the shot.

"I did some reading and found out the new strain in Europe is one of the worst for fatalities. But we are lucky here because we can get the vaccine now for that strain."

Mr Roberts said the vaccine will protect people from influenza but not the common cold.

"And we don't make you sick - the vaccine takes a protein of the strain and tells your body, if you see this attack it."