Anyone wanting flu protection in 2010 will need just the one vaccination. Next winter's seasonal influenza vaccine will also contain the pandemic (swine flu) strain. Health Minister Tony Ryall says free vaccine will be available to additional groups at particular risk from swine flu from next March – these include pregnant women, people who are morbidly obese and children aged six months to four years who are enrolled in particular high deprivation general practices. Seasonal flu immunisation is already free for all people over 65 and younger people with certain pre-existing health conditions (eg, chronic respiratory disease and diabetes), who were particularly susceptible to flu complications. The annual flu immunisation programme usually runs from March to June. Vaccination is by choice and will be available from a general practice or health provider. Most people will need to pay for it but some employers subsidise staff for the vaccination. "It is most likely we will have an upsurge in swine flu cases next Autumn," says Mr Ryall. "The northern hemisphere is currently experiencing extraordinary levels of influenza, ahead of its normal influenza season, so it is possible that another wave will occur in New Zealand before next winter."