On 13 July the University of Auckland announced that students now have access to a free flu vaccinations through the University Health and Counseling service. The vaccine originally costs a $25 fee for domestic students, and a $55 fee for international students. You can book an appointment through the University’s website. It is recommended that a person receives a flu vaccination every year to prevent infection caused by the influenza virus and limit the seriousness of the illness if it is passed on.
The news comes as this winter has seen the rise in serious cases of the flu and a new wave of COVID-19 hitting the country. The Omicron subvariant, BA.5, is the most transmissible COVID-19 variant to date, with WHO reporting that COVID-19 numbers globally increasing by 30% in two weeks due to its presence. On 12 July, 11,854 new cases of COVID-19 were reported, with 710 people in hospital. Flu hospitalisations are estimated to be even higher than this, and numerous people have also caught the flu and COVID-19 at the same time.
University halls have been hit hard throughout the season with the flu and COVID-19, as the close living confines increase the risk of transmissibility. Masks on campus are expected by the University, especially in spaces where social distancing is difficult. Sophie, a current Student Hall resident, says “it would be helpful if we were given some extra help with flu prevention. We’re all on a student budget and a lot of people can’t afford the extra price of medicine and vaccines on top of living”. Alex, another resident, says “I know some RAs have been able to get the vaccine for free through the University. It[‘s helpful]l to have that available to residents too… we pay enough to the University to waive the fee”.
