Reduce risk of seasonal flu

With flu vaccines now available from general practices and pharmacies, Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network (MPHN) is encouraging people to consider getting a flu shot this year to reduce their risk of contracting the seasonal flu this winter.

Children aged six months to five years, people aged 65 and over, pregnant women, Aboriginal people and those with high-risk medical conditions are eligible to be vaccinated for free by GPs.

MPHN Western Clinical Council Chair and General Practitioner Dr Muhammad Shahzad Arshed said flu vaccination remains a priority for all members of the community to ensure people stay well and pressure on health resources is reduced.

“Although the flu vaccine won’t protect people from the COVID-19 virus, it will help reduce the chance of contracting the seasonal flu which may weaken a person’s immune system” Dr Arshed said.

“Vaccination is the best way to prevent the flu and we encourage people to get vaccinated regardless of their current health condition. The more people are vaccinated the more protection there is for everyone.”

Dr Arshed also encouraged continuing to be vigilant with good hygiene practices to limit the spread of the flu.

“People should continue to practice good hygiene and always wash their hands correctly, cover their mouths and noses with a tissue when coughing and sneezing, dispose of their tissues into a bin, and stay at home if they are unwell,” Dr Arshed said.

“Following good hygiene also ensures those in the community who are vulnerable during winter and at risk of more serious complications from the flu, suck as pregnant women and the very young, are better protected.”

MPHN’s Acting CEO Julie Redway said people should be aware of the need to wait two weeks between any vaccinations.

“We are certainly encouraging people to consider receiving their flu vaccine as soon as possible, but would like to remind everyone about the requirement of at least 14 days between the influenza, COVID-19 or any other vaccine,” Ms Redway said.