Concern was sparked last week as there were reports in Australia that the Fluvax flu vaccine had had negative effects on some children under five.
As a result, doctors both here and in Australia are suggesting that children under five not be vaccinated with the vaccine, but are encouraging everyone over the age of five to be vaccinated against flu this season.
See here for expert comment on the issue from New Zealand and Australian experts.
Media coverage:
Stuff/The Dominion Post: Reports rise of child flu-jab convulsions
The Daily Post: Keep vaccinating kids for flu say doctors
NZPA/Taranaki Daily News: Flu vaccine convulsion cases in NZ*
NZ Herald: Fear of repeat sends demand for anti-flu jabs soaring
Newstalk ZB: Flu jab fears should not stop immunisation
The Dominion Post: Flu jab warning for children under five
TVNZ: Ministry warns over flu vaccine
RadioNZ: Children suffer serious reactions to flu vaccine
* Being syndicated in other papers, as well