Expanded flu vaccine eligibility for young children

Te Whatu Ora has advised that due to high rates of influenza-related presentations in primary care and hospitalisations among young children, funded influenza vaccination eligibility has been expanded to include all children aged 6 months to under 5 years of age, effective from 1 September 2026.

The decision supports an urgent public health response to help reduce the burden of flu disease in young children and alleviate system pressures. It is enabled by work already underway for the planned 2027 influenza programme changes, and confirmation of sufficient vaccine supply.

The New Zealand flu season started late and may go on longer than usual - it’s not too late for people to get vaccinated. The predominant virus is influenza A subclade K, and the flu vaccine is a good match to currently circulating flu viruses.

Questions can be sent to the NPHS Immunisation team at immunisation@tewhatuora.govt.nz.