Some of the groups that have the risk of falling prey to flu, with the onset of winters, will be getting a vaccination free of cost from their doctors.

People who are eligible for free vaccination will be the ones who are above 63 years of age and are suffering from diseases like asthma, heart disease, diabetes or immune suppression. However, obese and pregnant women are added to the free list, shared Nelson GP Spokesman Dr Graham Loveridge.

He said, “The free vaccine is wise spending by the Government, because it reduces the number of people off work, admitted to hospital, and who die of the flu”.

Vaccine has three features this year, i. e., A California H1N1 (swine flu), A Perth and B Brisbane. Dr Loveridge also added that H1N1 can reappear on the arrival of the winter.

The people who do not fall under the category of free vaccination can get themselves vaccinated by paying about $25 to any general practitioner.

The doctors are working to support this program and are encouraging all those who are eligible for free vaccination. They are hoping that they will get over within the next two months.