You too can Kung Fu flu – new website goes live

MEDIA RELEASE
www.influenza.org.nz

April 21, 2009

You too can Kung Fu flu – new website goes live

See if you’re quick enough to dodge the ‘scungy’ influenza virus in a fun, new interactive Kung Fu Flu game featured on the www.fightflu.co.nz website launched by the National Influenza Strategy Group (NISG)1 this week.

“The game is just a fun part of the site to attract people’s interest in the serious subject of influenza immunisation,” explains NISG chair Michelle Kapinga.

“Many people think that free influenza immunisation is just for people 65 and over. But anyone can catch influenza.

“We particularly want to get a message to people under 65 who have ongoing medical conditions such as asthma or diabetes as they are also eligible for free immunisation. Influenza can lead to serious complications for them and annual immunisation is their best protection,” explains Ms Kapinga.

She says the interactive game focuses on protecting yourself against the influenza virus which is constantly coming up with new ways to break through the body’s natural defences.

Influenza immunisation is free for New Zealanders at high risk of complications -- people aged 65 and over, and anyone under 65 years of age [including children from 6 months] with long-term health conditions such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, respiratory disease (including asthma), kidney disease and most cancers. Funded vaccine is available free from a doctor or nurse to eligible groups until June 30, 2009.

NISG’s national promotional campaign features a character who unsuccessfully attempts to fight off the influenza virus using his Kung Fu martial arts skills.

The new website also has a serious purpose with information on who is eligible for free immunisation; not so fun facts on influenza; answers to frequently asked questions; and a link to help people find a nearby doctor.
This year’s influenza vaccine offers protection against an A Brisbane/10/2007(H3N2)-like strain, an A Brisbane/59/2007(H1N1)-like strain and a B /Florida/4/2006-like strain.
For further information go to www.fightflu.co.nz or www.moh.govt.nz or call 0800 IMMUNE 0800 466 863. Health professionals will still find information they need on influenza immunisation at www.influenza.org.nz

ENDS

1National Influenza Strategy Group (NISG)
NISG was formed in 2000 by the Ministry of Health to increase public awareness of influenza, its seriousness and the importance of immunisation to prevent the disease.

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