01/03/2026
Just an info update on Vaccinations:
Firstly we are really not interested in all the anti-vax comments, let people make an informed choice and choose if it is right for them or not. No one is forcing anyone to take us up on this service..
Medsafe has updated the current Covid variant to LP.8.1. which is available for those who want it from today. (no appointment required just walk in).
A reminder the current eligibility criteria for this is:
One additional dose with the most current variant-matched vaccine every 6 months or 6 months following having a confirmed case of covid for the below people:
Any previously vaccinated people aged 30 years and over; or
Previously vaccinated immunocompromised people from 12 years;
Previously vaccinated people at high-risk from 12 years. (e.g. history of hospitalisation due to respiratory illness.)
Secondly Flu jab season is coming soon. You may of seen on the news the northern hemisphere current season has been reported as worse than average in some regions, driven by a fast-evolving, highly mutated H3N2 variant. We expect the southern Hemisphere to follow suit.
There are now two unfunded "superior" flu jabs available (compared to the funded one). We expect these to be available around the 16th of March, with funded flu jabs kicking off around the 1st of April.
Fluad Quad - Which is available to anybody over the age of 50 years old. Compared to the funded flu Jab it has about 20% greater antibody production and contains a special adjuvant which extends the life of the vaccine to cover the individual for a full year (funded one wanes after about 6 months) - great option for people going on overseas trips / cruises or that can afford to pay for it and be better protected. Cost is $50
Flucevax - Available for 3 years to 50 year olds. Cell based vaccine as opposed to {egg based) again with about a 20% greater antibody production compared to the funded vaccine. Cost is $45
As always we continue to provide free vaccinations for those that have been issued a voucher from their workplace. (These are usually a bit later in the season)
Stay well everyone.
Unichem Lynnmall