Flu Vaccinations 2026 – Mercury Bay Pharmacy
If you are looking for a flu vaccination in Whitianga, the team at Mercury Bay Pharmacy can help.
Our pharmacist vaccinators provide influenza vaccinations for eligible patients in accordance with New Zealand immunisation guidelines.
We welcome local residents, visitors to Mercury Bay, and people working in the area who would like to receive their 2026 flu vaccination.
The influenza (flu) vaccine is recommended each year to help reduce the risk of becoming seriously unwell from influenza.
At Mercury Bay Pharmacy, our qualified pharmacist vaccinators can administer the 2026 flu vaccine following a consultation to check that vaccination is suitable for you.
Annual flu vaccination is recommended because influenza viruses change each year, and immunity can decrease over time.
Why Get a Flu Vaccination?
Influenza is more than just a common cold. It can cause symptoms such as:
Fever and chills
Muscle aches and fatigue
Headache
Cough and sore throat
Severe tiredness lasting several days
Vaccination can help reduce the risk of influenza infection and serious complications, particularly for people at higher risk.
Who Should Consider a Flu Vaccine?
Flu vaccination may be particularly important for:
Older adults
Pregnant people
Young children
People with long-term health conditions
People who live with or care for vulnerable individuals
Our pharmacist can help determine whether flu vaccination is appropriate for you.
Funded (Free) Flu Vaccines
Some people in New Zealand may be eligible for a funded flu vaccination through the National Immunisation Programme.
Eligibility criteria are determined by Health NZ | Te Whatu Ora and may include groups such as:
Adults 65 years and over
Pregnant people
People with certain long-term medical conditions
Children aged 6 months to 12 years
Other groups identified by Health NZ
Eligibility criteria may change each year. Our pharmacists can confirm whether you qualify for a funded vaccination.
What to Expect During Your Vaccination
When you visit Mercury Bay Pharmacy for your flu vaccination:
A pharmacist vaccinator will review your health information
The vaccine will be administered by injection in the upper arm
You may be asked to remain in the pharmacy for a short observation period
Most people experience minimal side effects, though mild soreness at the injection site or mild flu-like symptoms may occur.
Who Can Receive a Flu Vaccine at the Pharmacy?
Pharmacist vaccinators in New Zealand are trained to vaccinate eligible patients according to national vaccination guidelines.
If vaccination at the pharmacy is not appropriate for you, the pharmacist may recommend seeing your doctor or another healthcare provider.
Book Your Flu Vaccination
To receive your 2026 flu vaccination at Mercury Bay Pharmacy, you can:
Visit the pharmacy, or
Contact our team to book an appointment
Protect yourself and your whānau this winter by staying up to date with your annual flu vaccination.
