The chilly weather appears to be responsible for a sudden rise in the number of New Zealanders with flu.
The number of people going to the doctor with flu-like symptoms has almost doubled in the past month to 58 cases in every 100,000 people, the National Influenza Strategy Group said in a statement.
Virologist Lance Jennings said influenza was a serious disease, especially for people with underlying medical conditions. It could make their condition much worse and lead to hospitalisation or even death. Dr Jennings said a free flu vaccination was still available for eligible New Zealanders - pregnant women, people aged 65 and over and anyone with long-term health conditions - until July 31.
"Contrary to a widely-held myth, you cannot get influenza from the vaccine, as it does not contain any live virus. Unfortunately some people may be incubating a common cold when vaccinated and then develop respiratory symptoms due to a non-influenza virus.
"Around a million people have already been vaccinated but that still leaves many vulnerable people unprotected.
