Winter wellness matters

Winter is coming, but there are ways to stay healthy over the cold and flu season.

Chemist Warehouse Warkworth pharmacist Shannae Pinfold says getting the flu vaccination in April or May will give you the best protection for winter.

“We recommend getting vaccinated at the start of the flu season. It’s also a good thing to do while you’re not sick,” she says.

“At the moment, we’re protecting against the flu strains that were in the Northern Hemisphere during their winter as that’s mainly what we’ll see here.”

Pinfold recommends the flu vaccine to everyone over six months old, especially if they’re elderly, pregnant or have a chronic health condition.

“We can vaccinate from 10-years-plus at the pharmacy, otherwise you’ll need to go to a medical centre,” Pinfold says.

According to KidsHealth, it’s important for everyone over six months old to have a flu vaccination every year, especially tamariki (children) with certain long-term health conditions.

Pinfold says many people are eligible for a free flu vaccination so it’s a good idea to check the funding criteria (see below).

Supplements are another way to help fight winter ills and chills.

A vitamin C supplement is a good option as it supports the immune system, Pinfold says.

“We’ve got the high dose vitamin C sachets, so 1000mg at a time. And liposomal vitamin C is worth it because you actually absorb more with that formulation.”

Vitamin B is another option worth considering.

“People generally get enough in their diets, but if you think that you’re low on energy, then vitamin B is a good supplement. Also, vitamin D because there’s not going to be much sun around over winter.”

Supplementation with zinc and olive leaf is recommended for when someone starts feeling under the weather, she says.

“Also magnesium for sleep and prioritising rest. It’s looking after yourself that way. Getting a good sleep, that’s probably the main one and eating well. Not having too many of the winter comfort meals and treats in moderation.

“And lots of fluids, staying hydrated, that will all help,” Pinfold says.

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2025 flu vaccine is free for:

The flu season starts in April. The flu vaccine is free for those who are most vulnerable to becoming very sick if they get the flu.

The vaccine is funded for everyone:

• 65 years old and over

It is also funded for people under 65 who are most at risk of becoming very sick from flu, such as people with:

• long-term conditions (like asthma, diabetes or cardiovascular disease)

• reduced immune function

• specific mental health conditions or addiction issues

Plus, women who are pregnant and children aged four years and under who have been hospitalised for respiratory illness or have a history of significant respiratory illness

(Source, Pharmac)