Flu hospitalisations in under-fives hit 10-year high; advisors urge free vaccines

Children under five are being hospitalised with flu at 75 per 100,000 — a 10-year high, with some in intensive care. Dr Mamaeroa David, who chairs the group that advises the Government on vaccines, said Māori and Pasifika children are worst affected. She wants the flu vaccine made free for all young children.