Source: PHARMAC
Pharmac and Health New Zealand have taken urgent action to help protect tamariki and their whānau, announcing that from today, the influenza vaccine is fully funded for all children aged 6 months up to their fifth birthday.
The decision follows a recent increase in influenza cases, particularly among young children.
Geraldine MacGibbon, Pharmac’s Director, Pharmaceuticals, says the agencies have been watching influenza activity closely and acted quickly in response.
“We’ve been concerned by the recent increase in influenza cases, particularly among young children,” says MacGibbon.
“Following this, we assessed the flu vaccine stock available in New Zealand and confirmed there is enough supply to support widened access to all children under five immediately.”
Pharmac had previously announced that it would fund the flu vaccine for children aged 6 months up to their fifth birthday for the 2027 flu season, as part of its standard annual procurement process. MacGibbon says the decision to bring the widened access forward was taken in response to the current increase in influenza-related illness.
From today, all children aged 6 months up to their fifth birthday are eligible for a free flu vaccine. The funded vaccine for this age group is Influvac Tetra.
The flu vaccine is also funded for:
- People aged 65 years and over
- People under 65 with health conditions that put them at higher risk of serious illness
- Pregnant women
MacGibbon says data from PHF Science, the New Zealand Government’s Institute for Public Health and Forensic Science, show that children under five years of age are experiencing higher rates of influenza-related hospitalisation and severe illness than any other age group, making them the priority group for expanded access at this time.
Health New Zealand is working with general practices, pharmacies, hauora Māori and pacific health providers to support immediate access across the country.
National Director, Prevention Immunisation, Nikki Canter-Burgoyne said that vaccination is the best tool we have to protect children and their whānau against influenza.
“Making the vaccine free for young children from today will help reduce barriers for families to get their children vaccinated, which is the best way to protect children, whānau, and communities from the impact of influenza.”
“We also encourage anyone who is eligible for a funded flu vaccine and has not yet had one to consider getting vaccinated.”
How to book an appointment
Whānau can book a flu vaccination appointment through bookmyvaccine.health.nz(external link), or by contacting their GP, pharmacy, Hauora Māori provider, or local immunisation clinic. Many providers also offer walk‑in options, and Health New Zealand encourages families to check local availability and book as soon as possible.
Public health advice
With influenza circulating widely, Health New Zealand reminds everyone to take simple steps to reduce spread:
- Wear a mask in busy indoor spaces or around vulnerable people
- Stay home if you are unwell, even with mild symptoms
- Wash and dry hands regularly to help prevent transmission of respiratory viruses
Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/09/01/flu-vaccine-now-funded-for-all-children-under-five-as-influenza-cases-rise/