The number of New Zealanders reporting both fever and cough symptoms is currently higher than at the same time in the last four years. Photo: 123RF
An immunisation expert hopes New Zealand will soon get a nasal spray flu vaccine.
UK pharmacies will start offering the flu spray given via the nose to toddlers without requiring a GP visit as part of an effort to boost vaccination rates there, the BBC reported.
Meanwhile, vaccination rates here have started to fall for the first time in two decades.
The Ministry of Health's flu tracker also shows the number of New Zealanders reporting both fever and cough symptoms is currently higher than at the same time in the last four years.
Immunisation Advisory Centre director Dr Nikki Turner said the spray vaccine had been used in Northern Hemisphere countries - including the UK - for more than 10 years, but it was not available in the Southern Hemisphere.
"They have for many years now been delivering it to preschoolers and children, particularly in primary school. It's effective for the kids, but it means they're also less likely to take the flu home and spread it to their families.
"In New Zealand, we've got large families, big households, it would be great if we could try to reduce the spread of flu, not just to the individual but to the family."
She said Australia would start offering the vaccine next year, and she hoped we would get it soon.
"It requires licensure and approval in New Zealand before we get it here. I think it's unlikely next year, but we are really keen to get it as soon as we can."
She said it was a more accessible option, including for those put off from getting vaccinated because of their anxiety about needles.
Immunisation Advisory Centre director Dr Nikki Turner. Photo: Supplied
"You spray it up your nose, so no needles, which is a great win for so many of us. It's also more natural - that's how you get flu, it comes into your nose and into your body.
"From this year, people are taking it home and delivering it to themselves, so you don't even need to go to the doctor now."
She said in the US, the vaccine was licensed for ages two to 49.
She said for most, it would be just as effective as the flu injection. However, she said if people were stuffy and congested, it would not work as well.
She said it was unsuitable for children under two or people with severe immune system problems.
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