Getting the flu vaccine is a great time to also check for and receive any recommended COVID-19 vaccines. Like influenza, COVID-19 is highly contagious and can lead to severe respiratory illness and complications in older people and those with underlying medical conditions. It remains a leading cause of infection related hospitalisations and deaths in Aotearoa New Zealand, particularly for older adults. Once or twice-yearly additional doses of COVID-19 vaccine are encouraged if older or at higher risk of getting sick from COVID-19. These are important because vaccine protection decreases over time, and the vaccine is updated regularly to match changes in the circulating COVID-19 virus. In 2026, the vaccine has been updated to target the LP.8.1 variant.