Leeeeeets get ready to rumble” - Your guide to the 2025 Flu season

It has been, by any measure, an absolutely crazy start to the year - and amongst all that noise; there’s something you might have missed : the Northern Hemisphere’s flu season was an absolute shocker this winter. And that matters here in our community , because what happens up there often predicts what’s coming our way.

 

This past flu season in the US and UK was one of the worst in years. In America, more than 29 million people got the flu, 370,000 ended up in hospital, and 16,000 lost their lives. The UK saw record hospital admissions, with flu wards overflowing. Two strains—H1N1 and H3N2—were the culprits, both known for causing severe illness. The reality is, when these flu strains dominate, hospital admissions go up and so do complications, especially in older adults.

Why does this matter for us ? Because we’re heading into winter, and history tells us that flu trends in the Northern Hemisphere often predict what’s coming here. The same strains that overwhelmed hospitals overseas are likely to show up on our doorstep. The good news? This year’s flu vaccine has been designed to fight those exact strains. The bad news? It only works if you actually get it.

 

If you’re over 65, this isn’t something to put off. Older adults are hit hardest by flu, and every winter we see people in hospital with complications that could have been prevented. That’s why the flu vaccine is free for over-65s, pregnant women, people with respiratory conditions, and anyone with long-term health issues like diabetes, asthma, or heart disease. This year, there’s an extra boost for our region—WellSouth is funding free flu vaccines for all Māori and Pasifika aged 55 and over in Otago and Southland. If you qualify, it’s super important that you don’t miss this opportunity.

 

The flu jab isn’t just about avoiding a few days in bed. It protects against serious illness, reduces hospital admissions, and helps keep our community well. And while you’re at it, you can also get your COVID booster at the same time. The latest vaccine targets the JN.1 strain, which has been circulating recently . It’s safe to get both shots together, and doing so means you’ll be set for winter in one go.

 

Roslyn Pharmacy is taking flu vaccine bookings now. If you’re eligible for a free vaccine, we’ll sort that out for you. If you’re not, it’s a small cost for big protection. More information including how to book your vaccine now is online at roslynpharmacy.co.nz or call 0800 282 926 and ask for Roslyn Pharmacy, Dunedin. We’re here to help, and we want to see as many of you protected as soon as possible before flu season kicks off. If you’re a workplace - arranging an on-site flu and COVID vaccinations for your team is a smart and easy way to keep everyone healthy and protected. Bringing this service to your workplace helps shield your team and reduce sick days. No one has to leave the office , since our vaccinating team come directly to you!! To book an on-site clinic for your workplace, just email us at info@roslynpharmacy.co.nz, and our team will be happy to arrange the visit and take care of all the details.

 

As a pharmacist, I’m often asked, “What is the best thing I can do each winter to avoid getting sick?” My answer is simple: get your annual flu shot. Vaccination against flu is our first line of defence against illness this winter . Other tips? - I always recommend staying active, eating well, and washing your hands frequently to boost your immune system and stop the spread of germs. These habits, combined with the protection from your flu shot, give you the best chance of staying healthy all winter long.. So come on Dunners!! Get your flu shot, protect yourself and your whānau, and let’s keep our community healthy this winter.

 

 

Hear from you soon - Andrew and the team at the Roslyn Pharmacy