WellKiwis Adult Study

The WellKiwis Adult Study follows Wellington adults over time to better understand how influenza immunity develops, changes, and responds across seasons. This research helps build a clearer picture of adult immune protection and supports future planning for flu prevention in Aotearoa New Zealand.

The WellKiwis Adult Study, also known as SHIVERS-II, has been following Wellington adults since 2018. By studying how adults respond to influenza over time, the research can help inform public health decisions about reducing the spread and impact of flu in the community. It also contributes to knowledge that may help improve flu vaccines in the future.

Why adult participation matters

Adults play an important role in understanding how influenza moves through communities and how immunity changes over time. Following participants across multiple seasons allows researchers to observe patterns that short-term studies can miss — including how previous infections, vaccination, and repeated exposure may shape future immune responses.