14/06/2024
Flu and Covid vaccines are available at the practice - call now to book in!
People aged 65 and over are again being urged to book in now for their free flu vaccine, as the virus continues to surge across the state.
“Flu is rapidly increasing across the state. In the past week alone, presentations to our emergency departments increased by almost 22 per cent for people with influenza-like illness,” NSW Chief Health Officer Dr Kerry Chant said.
“We are expecting the flu season will be around for several weeks to come, so now is the time to book in for your free flu vaccine to get the vital protection you need. This is particularly important for people aged 65 and over who are at higher risk of severe illness from influenza, and unfortunately our vaccination rates for this group still aren’t where we need them to be. At present, just half of people 65 and over (52.4 per cent) in NSW have received their flu vaccine.”
The influenza vaccine is free and readily available for those at higher risk of severe illness from influenza. It is available through GPs for any age group, as well as through pharmacies for everyone aged five years and over.
Those considered to be at higher risk of severe illness from influenza who are eligible for free vaccination include:
- people aged 65 and over
- children aged six months to under five years
- Aboriginal people from six months of age
- pregnant women
- those with serious health conditions such as diabetes, cancer, immune disorders, severe asthma, kidney, heart, and lung disease.
More info: https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/news/Pages/20240613_01.aspx
Book your flu vaccine at your doctor or local pharmacy or find your nearest service at healthdirect.gov.au/nswfluvaccine
