Flu vaccination hits all time high

Influenza vaccination has hit an all-time high in New Zealand, with latest figures showing clinics have already distributed more doses this year than for the entire 2005 season.

More than 720,000 doses of influenza vaccine have been distributed so far, compared to 717,610 doses last year. The influenza vaccination campaign still has six weeks to go.

Pharmac medical director Dr Peter Moodie said there was still enough vaccine available for those who wanted a subsidised vaccination.

Free vaccines are available to those at-risk - people aged 65 and over and those with long-term health conditions such as heart disease, stroke and diabetes.

- NZPA