Since the flu virus changes regularly, the vaccine is updated each year to target the current strains. For the 2025 winter season, there are three options available:

• Influvac Tetra: This vaccine protects you against two A strains and two B strains and is free for those who meet specific eligibility requirements. By targeting multiple strains, a quadrivalent vaccine gives you better coverage against the most common circulating flu viruses.

• Flucelvax Quad: This vaccine is tailored to match the strains circulating that year, offering 5-19% better protection than the standard flu shot. It's also safe for pregnant women and suitable for anyone over 6 months of age.

• Fluad® Quad: Specifically made for people aged 65 and older, this vaccine includes an ingredient called MF59® Adjuvant, which helps boost the body’s immune response. Studies have shown it can reduce flu-related doctor visits by 18-36% and offers longer-lasting protection, with higher antibody levels lasting up to 12 months after the shot.

What to ask your chemist for:

When visiting your local pharmacy for a flu vaccination, you can request any of the above vaccines. If you have a preference or specific eligibility (e.g., age, medical condition), mention it to get the right vaccine for you. It's a good idea to check ahead to see if the vaccine is available and ask about costs.

Free flu vaccines:

The flu vaccine is free for the following groups:

• Pregnant women

• People aged 65 and older

• Anyone with conditions like diabetes, cancer, asthma, or heart disease (ages 6 months and up)

• Children aged 4 and under with serious respiratory illnesses

• People under 65 with certain mental health conditions

Here’s the full list of who’s eligible and more information about possible side effects.

To book your flu shot, get in touch with your nearest participating pharmacy (below).

Influenza A and B are two types of flu viruses that cause seasonal flu. While similar, there are key differences between them.

Influenza A Influenza A is the most common flu virus, responsible for seasonal flu outbreaks and sometimes pandemics. It can infect both humans and animals, like birds and pigs. Symptoms include:

• Fever or chills

• Cough

• Sore throat

• Muscle aches

• Fatigue

• Headache

• Runny or stuffy nose

• Occasionally, nausea or vomiting (more common in children)

Influenza B Influenza B only infects humans and causes seasonal flu outbreaks, though it doesn't lead to pandemics. It generally results in milder illness but can cause stronger symptoms in kids, such as ear infections, vomiting, and even seizures.

Treatment for Influenza A and B:

If you catch the flu, there are several treatments that can help you feel better and recover faster:

1. Rest and stay hydrated: Rest is crucial for your body to fight the virus. Drink plenty of fluids like water or herbal teas to stay hydrated and ease congestion.

2. Over-the-counter medications: Paracetamol or ibuprofen can help reduce fever and ease aches. Follow the instructions and avoid using them for too long.

3. Pseudoephedrine cold and flu tablets: These can clear a blocked nose, but they’re not suitable for everyone, so check with a pharmacist first.

4. Stay isolated: To prevent spreading the flu, stay home and rest until you're better, especially to protect vulnerable people like the elderly.

5. Seek medical help if needed: If symptoms worsen or you have trouble breathing, chest pain, or confusion, see a doctor.

Most people recover with rest and care, but reach out to a healthcare professional if you're concerned.

Living Rewards members receive 10 Living Rewards points when they receive a FLU Vaccination.

Flu Vaccination Voucher Programme 

Unichems across New Zealand offer a National Corporate Flu Vaccination Programmes which is a convenient and simple way to manage vaccinations within your business.  

Enquire today by emailing our Professional Services Team here to find out more on how we can support your business.  

Further information on our Flu Vaccination Programme 2025 can be found here.